Celebrating Two Decades of Service
OUR PROUD HISTORY
“All programs are offered to veterans free of charge, fostering a comprehensive sense of closure without the burden of financial obligations.” ~ Wilson Colwell
THE FORMATION -
The Greatest Generations Foundation (TGGF) was born from a deeply personal connection between an Australian grandson and his World War II veteran grandfather, a connection forged in the crucible of shared history and unwavering admiration for the United States' role in protecting Australia. Founded in 2002 by Timothy Davis, TGGF addresses the often-overlooked needs of combat veterans from all eras, particularly their desire to return to significant battle sites for reflection and closure. Recognizing the powerful bond between Australian and American veterans, and understanding the financial barriers many face in undertaking such journeys, the foundation provides vital support, enabling veterans to revisit the scenes of their service and receive critical assistance in navigating the emotional and psychological complexities of post-military life.
THE FIRST DECADE -
Between 2002 and 2012, a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to honoring World War II veterans and preserving their untold stories flourished. Throughout the first decade-the Foundation facilitated the return of veterans to pivotal battlefields across Europe and the Pacific, fostering reunions and providing a platform for sharing their invaluable personal narratives. Beyond commemoration, the initiative prioritized improving veterans' post-service lives through access to vital resources and the creation of a comprehensive educational curriculum directly informed by their firsthand accounts of combat, ranging from Bomber Command in England, Normandy, Italy, Africa and Germany, to the often-overlooked battles of the Pacific Islands. The program's success transcended its initial goals, resulting in impactful projects across all major theaters of war and ensuring the legacy of these veterans would endure for generations to come.
THE SECOND DECADE -
From 2012 to 2022, a vital repatriation program for World War II veterans continued its work, fostering reconciliation and collaboration with former adversaries in Germany and Japan. Building upon this foundation, the innovative Connecting Generations initiative emerged, an educational program that takes repatriation a step further by pairing younger participants with veterans on these missions, offering a unique, firsthand experience of living history. This initiative aims to deepen understanding of the war's historical significance without placing a financial burden on students and educators. Furthermore, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, a movement to unify the World War II veteran community sought to facilitate the repatriation of veterans who served in Southeast Asia, particularly Vietnam, navigating political obstacles to enable their return. Through these efforts, these World War II veterans have not only led the way in healing but have also cultivated a powerful initiative to address the needs of a forgotten generation, providing a sense of resolution and opening a new chapter in veteran care through constructive dialogue and reconciliation.
THE MEMORY ENDURES -
In a heartfelt tribute to the enduring legacy of the Greatest Generation, we are proud to announce the formation of a committed alliance between our organization and the surviving heroes of World War II, resulting in the creation of the Center for International Studies in Normandy, France. This exceptional facility serves as a beacon of respect and remembrance, forging profound connections between historical valor and the contemporary challenges faced by veterans. The Center for International Studies not only enhances our current enrichment programs but is also dedicated to fostering a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by all veterans, encompassing the Cold War era through to the present-day conflicts in the Middle East. As a vital resource, it provides invaluable insights into the complexities of war and its enduring aftermath, ensuring that the lessons of history and the bravery of those who served continue to inform and inspire future generations.
THE NEXT GENERATION -
Recognizing the unique needs of post-World War II veterans, our executive leadership is committed to addressing the intricate challenges these individuals face as they navigate civilian life. With this mission at the forefront, we have devised a comprehensive 25-year strategy centered around the Sea of Goodwill philanthropic platform, marking a pivotal step in our approach to veteran support. This initiative transcends traditional models of assistance by specifically enhancing educational opportunities, preserving historical legacies, and prioritizing mental health resources for veterans. Through the integration of these elements, our goal is to create a holistic support system that not only acknowledges and honors the sacrifices of our veterans but also empowers them to thrive in their post-service lives.
Our Esteemed Partners
The invaluable contributions of our esteemed benefactors over the last two-decades are crucial to the successful implementation of our endeavors serving the Veterans of World War II. We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the numerous individuals, corporations, clubs, organizations, and foundations who have generously supported our initiatives in the past and continue to provide their assistance in the future.
