World War II

The Second World War, from 1939 to 1945, was a global war that was the deadliest military conflict in history. An estimated 70-85 million people around the world died in a war that spanned from the Pacific Ocean to the West Siberian Plain.

Among the millions of Americans who served, Dwight D. Eisenhower's military career was defined by World War II. A relatively unknown brigadier general at the start of the United States' involvement, by war's end, Eisenhower had distinguished himself as an unparalleled commander of Allied forces and had achieved the rank of General of the Army, known commonly as a five star general. Below are a collection of links and articles that highlight Eisenhower and the greatest generation's role in defeating Nazism and fascism, in creating the world that we know today. These links and articles also explore the legacy of WWII in Gettysburg, the community the Eisenhowers came to call home after the war.

Below, you will find links to our various programs, events, articles, and web features highlighting Dwight D. Eisenhower and World War II.
 

World War II Programs and Events

A color image showing American flags in front of white headstones
Virtual Programs

WWII in Gettysburg National Cemetery

Explore the stories of WWII casualties buried in Gettysburg National Cemetery in this video series.

A black and white image of soldiers marching through snow covered woods

Eisenhower and the Battle of the Bulge

The Battle of the Bulge was the largest and costliest battle of World War II for American forces. Explore this story here.

A black and white image of soldiers on a landing craft approaching the shores of Normandy

Eisenhower and D-Day

On June 6, 1944, General Dwight Eisenhower led the largest amphibious invasion in history. Learn more about D-Day and Ike's leadership here.

A young visitor in a red shirt looks through the site on a WWII artillery piece

World War II Weekend

Join Eisenhower NHS for World War II Weekend, taking place annually on the third weekend of September.

Walter Cronkite seated to the left of Dwight Eisenhower on a stone wall.
Virtual Programs

Five Star Conversations

Conversations with historians, authors, and park rangers discussing the lives of Dwight and Mamie Eisenhower.

A black and white image of the Gettysburg Times newspaper headline for VE Day

Staff Connections to WWII

Join us as we pay tribute to our family and friends who served in WWII

Two men, one in military uniform, stand side by side while holding their right hands in the air

Baseball in World War II

Dwight Eisenhower loved baseball. So did millions of Americans who served in World War II. Explore this story here.

 

Articles on Eisenhower, Gettysburg, and World War II

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    Last updated: November 14, 2025

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