The National World War II Museum was unveiling something new November 6-9 and it was going to be big in many ways. D-Day for me was going to be November 6, 2009, when the star studded cast of distinguished guests were paying tribute to the men and woman of World War II. I’m not talking about the celebs on stage like Tom Brokaw, Patricia Clarkson, and Tom Hanks, but the true stars of the day: the 300 or so World War II veterans in attendance. My niece, Aimee Rathle (14 years old), got to accompany her “Auntie Monie” to what I indicated was to be a Social Studies project. I truly believed it would be a great experience for her and Aimee had every intention to learn something, but as soon as she caught a glimpse of Hanks, all bets were off! Her goal was to say hello and get a picture with him. “It would be the coolest thing,” Aimee said, nudging at every moment. 
I made her pay attention during the whole ceremony and understand the importance and sacrifices of the veterans sitting directly behind us, standing proud for fighting for us and supporting the rights of this country, and rightfully so. It was warm day and the sun was beaming ferociously down on all of us. I saw water bottles under each of the veteran’s chairs but most were not able to bend down so far, so I began to grab the waters underneath their chairs to give it to them. I stopped counting and made sure they were completing hydrated! It was wonderful to listen to Gordan Mueller and speak of his great friend Stephen Ambrose. The museum would not be here today if it was not for Mr. Ambrose - a man with vision, heart and determination. He wanted to give these brave men and women something back for all their unconditional love for this country… our country… my country! 
When you visit New Orleans and the National World War II Museum, you will ‘experience the victory’ of the museum through its Solomon Victory Theatre’s 4-D movie, Beyond All Boundaries produced by Hanks! The Stage Door Canteen is what will keep you hopping with live entertainment, and my friend and longtime business associate John Besh's new restaurant, The American Sector, brings back nostalgic meals that was on every American table in the 40’s and 50’s. It’s simple, but one of my most favorite dishes is the Heirloom Tomato Soup – creamy and delicious, and the grilled ham and cheese. I skip the ham but you have to love that seriously melted cheese just oozing out with great flavor.
At the end of the day, Aimee’s wish came true and her Auntie Monie got bumped up in the cool category for a few months. Teenagers! Thanks Mom for surviving those years with me.
"Victory belongs to the most persevering." - Napoleon Bonaparte
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