Foundation gives $3M to tell Bob Hope’s story at WW2 Museum

NEW ORLEANS – Bob Hope’s commitment to entertaining U.S. troops will be recognized at the National World War II Museum in New Orleans through a $3 million donation from the comedian’s foundation.

Hope’s story “represents the value of laughter and humanity in even the darkest times,” the museum said in a news release Tuesday.

The museum examines the American experience in World War II, and Hope’s role is “essential to revealing this era’s history,” museum President and CEO Gordon H. “Nick” Mueller said.

Hope, who died in 2003, performed for troops from World War II until the Gulf War.

Museum plans include a special exhibit, a documentary about Hope’s achievements and a film series honouring his legacy. The museum also will make photographs, artifacts and other archival materials about Hope available through its digital collections at ww2online.org.

The museum also will offer military, families of military and veterans some free tickets to shows at BB’s Stage Door Canteen. The new “Tickets for Troops” program began this summer, along with an annual youth theatre camp to teach students about dance, song, costume, set design and Hope’s role in World War II.

“I know my dad would be extremely proud of this association with The National WWII Museum in New Orleans, one of his favourite cities,” Linda Hope said. “We all hope that the visitors to the National WWII Museum enjoy learning more about his service to the armed forces and hopefully it will trigger some special memories.”