World War 1 was supposed to be the war to end all wars. An Armistice was signed November 11, 1918. A presentation to mark the centennial will be given on Sunday, November 18 at 2 pm at the American Legion Memorial Building. Dr. John Mark Nielsen, Executive Director Emeritus of the Museum of Danish America will give the presentation. He will provide a brief overview of WWI and describe his grandfather’s participation in the American Expeditionary Force. He will also suggest how the war to end all wars impacts our world today.

More than 114,200 Iowans served in WWI. Nearly 1000 were from Cass County and many more from neighboring communities. Seven women from Atlantic are known to have served in WWI. The first woman to die of combat injuries was from Davenport, Iowa. She was serving in a canteen. One of the first soldiers killed was from Iowa, Merle Hay. The program is provided by Atlantic Rock Island Society Enterprise, ARISE. The Military Museum, Military Library and Atlantic History Center will be open for viewing. Refreshments will include beverages and donuts. There is no fee but donations are welcome.

Additional programs are scheduled for January through May, 2019. Request a tour or use of meeting space by calling 712-243-5445. See additional information on the web site or Facebook. Just search for arise atlantic iowa.