“NORMANDY — the world’s greatest classroom, where the past endures to teach every generation.”
The Class of 44
In honor of the pivotal events of 1944 and the D-Day landings in Normandy, each selected school is awarded a scholarship to support the participation of 44 students and six teachers in a curriculum-connected educational experience in Normandy, France. Through immersive learning and engagement with historical sites and firsthand accounts, participants deepen their understanding of history, strengthen civic responsibility, and carry forward the enduring legacy of service and sacrifice for future generations.
Anchored in the timeless values of Duty, Honor, and Country…
Anchored in the enduring values of Duty, Honor, and Country, Connecting Generations™ and the Class of ’44™ serves as both a historical compass and a moral framework for student learning. Through the personal narratives and consequential choices of World War II, students examine the ethical demands of leadership, service, and sacrifice. In doing so, the program cultivates intellect and empathy alike—encouraging moral courage, responsible citizenship, and a lasting understanding of what it means to serve a purpose greater than oneself.
Inspiring the Future.
As the last living witnesses of World War II fade from living memory, the responsibility to preserve and share their stories grows ever more urgent. This program offers schools a rare opportunity to bring students to the shores of Normandy, where history is encountered not only in textbooks, but through place, reflection, and direct engagement with the legacy of those who served. We invite schools to apply and take part in this meaningful initiative—one that turns memory into purpose, preserves the legacy of World War II, and inspires the next generation to value freedom, embrace unity, and carry forward the hope of peace.
Inspiring the Future.
Selected schools are awarded scholarships supporting the participation of 44 students and six teachers, making this transformative educational experience both accessible and enduring in its impact. Through this journey, students deepen historical understanding, strengthen civic awareness, and develop a personal connection to the values of service and sacrifice.
