Watch Liberty Memorial: Stories of the Great War Monument

"Liberty Memorial: Stories of the Great War Monument" is a 2007 documentary film that takes the viewers on a journey through the history of the Liberty Memorial, an enduring monument dedicated to the lives lost in the Great War. The film is directed by Mark Tanner and produced by the American Battle Monuments Commission. The documentary showcases the monument from its inception to present day, while focusing on the stories of the individuals who made the monument a reality. The movie features interviews with several notable figures such as Major Bouillaud, Vicki Britain, Walter Cronkite, and Dominique Decherf, who offer unique insights into the role of the Liberty Memorial in commemorating those who sacrificed their lives in World War I.

The story begins as veterans return home from the war and begin to advocate for a lasting tribute to their fallen comrades. The Liberty Memorial was envisioned as a memorial to the 441 soldiers from the city of Kansas City who lost their lives in the war. However, it quickly grew into much more than that as people from all over the country began to send in their own stories and photos of loved ones who had perished in the war. The monument eventually became a symbol of remembrance for all those who had given their lives in the service of their country.

Throughout the film, we see how the monument was constructed and how it evolved over time. The memorial is not just a monument, but also a museum that houses a wide array of artifacts and information about World War I. Viewers get to see the various components of the monument such as the tower, the museum, the exhibit hall, and the outdoor areas.

One of the particularly interesting parts of the documentary is the story of the dedication of the monument. The dedication ceremony, which took place in November 1921, drew more than 200,000 people from around the world. The film takes us through the preparation for the dedication, including the construction of temporary structures and the laying of over 100,000 red poppies at the base of the tower. The ceremony included speeches from high-ranking officials, parades, and a flyover by military aircraft. The documentary does an excellent job of showcasing the significance of the monument in the hearts and minds of the people who attended the dedication.

The film also highlights the significance of the monument in the years following its dedication. During World War II, the monument was used as a gathering place for rallies and parades. More recently, the monument has been used as a venue for concerts and other special events.

Overall, "Liberty Memorial: Stories of the Great War Monument" is a compelling documentary that sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of American history. The movie is visually stunning and features excellent storytelling that will captivate viewers from start to finish. The interviews with major figures involved in the creation and maintenance of the monument provide valuable insights and perspectives that make the documentary all the more powerful. Anyone interested in history, especially the history of World War I, will find this film to be a must-watch. It's a gripping and moving tribute to those who fought and died in one of the most devastating wars in human history.

Liberty Memorial: Stories of the Great War Monument is a 2003 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 10 minutes.