Hannah Block Historic USO to host WWII programs honoring America 250

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center will host a series of educational programs this May highlighting the city’s role in World War II as part of the nationwide America 250 commemoration.

The events, co-hosted by the World War II Wilmington Home Front Heritage Coalition, will explore Wilmington’s designation as America’s first World War II Heritage City through lectures and live performances.

The series begins May 11 with a doubleheader presentation. Rory Laverty of University of North Carolina Wilmington will discuss Japanese American soldiers who fought for the United States during the war. The program will be followed by a presentation from Wilbur Jones on German Afrika Korps prisoners held in Wilmington from 1944 to 1946. The event is free and open to the public.

On May 17, Jones will return with a presentation on “Rosie the Riveter: American Women in WWII,” followed by a live stage performance by Elizabeth Michaels portraying the iconic wartime figure. Tickets are required for this program.

The series concludes May 18 with two additional presentations led by Jones, focusing on the Wilmington Shipyard’s wartime role and personal stories of growing up on the home front. This event is also free and open to the public.

Organizers say the programs are designed to educate the community and honor Wilmington’s unique contributions during World War II while connecting local history to the broader national America 250 celebration.

Additional details and ticket information are available through the Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center.