4. Objectives. This plan is designed to accomplish the following five goals:
a. To remind the World War II generation of U.S. citizens, and to educate
postwar generations, of the Navy’s contributions during the war and the successful
role it played in defending and protecting this nation’s freedom.
b. To honor the veterans of World War II.
c. To inform the public about World War II as the dominant event of the 20th
century, often forgotten or diminished in importance in the context of live media
coverage of current events.
d. To highlight the advances in technology, science and medicine from military
research during World War II.
e. To accommodate the desires of the Allies of the United States in World War
II, as feasible, in allied/joint U.S. observances.
5. Policv Guidance and Planning Considerations.
a. Commands at all levels will cooperate with and support, as appropriate,
World War II observances planned by individual military and civilian groups,
veterans/patriotic organizations and observances sponosored by private and public
sectors.
b. Events will be conducted as commemorations and observances, not
celebrations. Every effort will be made to avoid commercialization or an atmosphere
that detracts from the dignity and solemnity of events.
c. Events will seek to commemorate ideas, alliances and programs, as well as
battles.
d. Events will involve the American public at every possible opportunity.
e. DoD/State will provide specific guidance on joint commemorations and
those involved with United States Allies and former adversaries.
f. Proposals for joint commemorations with former wartime adversaries will
be received politely and evaluated on an individual basis at the Navy and DoD level.
g. Commemorations will reflect a sensitivity and appreciation of the tragedy
of war, and an understanding of the losses suffered by all nations during the war.
AI-2
