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Country recording artist Lee Greenwood, known for his anthem "God Bless the USA," will headline the "Keep the Spirit of ’45 Alive!" concert honoring World War II veterans from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday at the Waikiki Shell.
The Hawaii event is part of an inaugural nationwide tribute to the "Greatest Generation" on the 66th anniversary of the end of the war and is sponsored by historical organizations, military museums and memorials. Congress passed a resolution last year proclaiming the second weekend of August each year as "Keep the Spirit of ’45 Alive Forever Days."
"We are extremely honored that our state was awarded the privilege to host the ‘Spirit of ’45’ event," said local organizer Vanita Rae Smith. "Everyone in Hawaii feels the spirit of World War II in some way. This inaugural event will touch all of us who have had family, friends, neighbors and acquaintances wear a uniform or help those in uniform. … It will be a memorable event not to be missed."
Saturday’s concert will include a "Flags of Liberty" ceremony and entertainment by local performers and the National Guard 111th Army Band. A life-size sculpture depicting the iconic Times Square kiss between a sailor and a nurse on Aug. 14, 1945, will be on display at the venue.
WWII veterans will be admitted to the concert at no charge. For tickets, go to the VIP table by the box office. Ticket prices for others are $25 and $35 at the Neal Blaisdell Center box office and Ticketmaster outlets, online at www.ticketmaster.com or by phone at 800-745-3000.
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