Rescuing History: The Monuments Men and the La Gleize Virgin Mary Statue With Corine Wegener

Join us on March 6th, from 6 PM to 8 PM, for a special presentation about the World War II Monuments Men and the daring rescue of the Virgin Mary statue in La Gleize, Belgium. Our presenter, Ms. Corine Wegener, will share her insights on this historic event and the importance of cultural heritage preservation.  

All active-duty service members get in free upon registration.

Attendees will also hear an update on the museum renovation plans and see first-hand a new addition to the museum collection, a hand-carved replica of the La Gleize Virgin Mary statue.  We will introduce Ms. Deanie French, daughter of the renowned sculptor and late Monument Man Captain Walker Hancock, and Mr. Bernard Geenen whose father along with Captain Hancock saved the statue from destruction by the Germans during World War II.

A reception will follow.

About the Corine Wegener:

Ms. Wegener is a distinguished expert in cultural preservation. She recently served as the director of the Smithsonian Cultural Rescue Initiative (SCRI) a program dedicated to protecting cultural heritage during times of crisis. Her background also includes service as a U.S. Army Reserve officer, where she played a crucial role in safeguarding artifacts following the looting of the Iraq National Museum in 2003.

Ms. Wegener's dedication to cultural heritage extends to her work as the founder of the U.S. Committee of the Blue Shield. This international organization raises awareness about the 1954 Hague Convention, a treaty protecting cultural property during armed conflict. Largely due to her efforts, the U.S. ratified this important treaty in 2009.

We hope you'll join us for this informative and inspiring event! 

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