Schmidt to speak at World War I centennial event

American Legion National Commander Charles E. Schmidt will deliver remarks at "In Sacrifice for Liberty and Peace," an international ceremony marking the 100th anniversary of U.S. entry into World War I, on April 6.

Hosted by the U.S. World War One Centennial Commission at the National World War I Museum & Memorial, in Kansas City, Mo., the event will be a multimedia production illustrating America’s step-by-step decision to enter the war, blending live performance and film with historic images and music of the period. It will be broadcast on giant screens and streamed live online at the commission's website.

This ceremony will include readings, commemorative flyovers by U.S. aircraft and Patrouille de France (the precision aerobatic demonstration team of the French Air Force), the U.S. First Infantry Division Band and Color Guard, the Native American Color Guard, and Army and Air Force legacy units that served during World War I. Notable performers participating in the event include Kevin Costner, solo R&B recording artists Billy Cliff and Lisa Fischer, baritone John Brancy with pianist Peter Dugan, and Kansas City Lyric Opera featured artist Samantha Gossard.

Invited attendees include the the nation's highest elected officials, state governors, U.S. military leaders, veterans organizations, descendants of significant American World War I figures, and other dignitaries and VIPs, including the heads of state of all nations involved in the war.

By prior reservation, members of the general public can attend the ceremony, too. Up to four tickets for the ceremony can be requested on a first-come, first-serve basis on the World War One Centennial Commission's website. For schools and group reservations, a limited number of group tickets are also available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

All guests, including children, must have a ticket to gain entry to the event, either printed or on mobile phone. Ticket holders will be required to enter the National World War I Museum & Memorial grounds between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m. on Thursday, April 6, and pass through security screening. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early. The public seating area will not have chairs, but guests will be allowed to bring blankets or cushions. No entry will be allowed after 9 a.m.

The April 6 ceremony will be complemented by state and local events across the nation, organized by state-based World War I centennial commemoration organizations and others. Click here to find a state or local event in your area.

The U.S. World War One Centennial Commission, by resolution, has The American Legion's support.