While new monuments and memorials seem to spring up across the nation, others are torn down by the people; one place holds deep significance for me: the Liberty Memorial in Kansas City. Since 2012, I’ve visited it six times, and each visit has shaped how I think about leadership, legacy, and sacrifice—not just in a historical context but also in my personal and professional life.
I’ve had the privilege of visiting the memorial under various circumstances. Each visit has unique lessons, from attending a concert to reflecting on solitude. One of the most memorable visits was when I took my oldest son, Hunter, who is turning 21 next month. My wife, Mary, snapped a photo of us at the memorial’s base overlooking Kansas City. Without any prompting, Hunter raised his hand and saluted. As a father with 26 years of service in the military, that simple gesture made my heart a little softer that day. It wasn’t just about the moment; it was about the legacy I’m passing down to my children, and that photo now hangs proudly in my office as a daily reminder.
The Power of Legacy
The Liberty Memorial isn’t just a beautiful monument—it’s a tribute to the men and women who served in World War I. Built by the people of Kansas City in 1926, the memorial is a testament to the unity, sacrifice, and resilience that shaped our nation during and after the war. In just ten days, the citizens of Kansas City raised more than $2.5 million—equivalent to over $40 million today—to build a memorial that would forever honor those who served in “The War to End All Wars.”
In 2004, Congress officially recognized the Liberty Memorial as the National World War I Museum and Memorial, solidifying its place as a symbol of national significance. And while there’s now a new World War I Memorial in Washington, DC, it’s essential not to forget the history and impact of the original memorial in Kansas City.
I’ve visited the memorial six times; every visit has felt different. I once attended a veterans event focused on advocating for veteran hires and mentorship in the marketplace. It was packed with representatives from veterans service organizations, and our conversations there reinforced my belief in the power of leadership and advocacy. It reminded me that our responsibility as leaders goes beyond ourselves—creating opportunities and building a future for those who come after us.
Leadership and Sacrifice
In my visits to the Liberty Memorial, one theme has always stood out: sacrifice. The memorial physically represents the sacrifices made by soldiers who fought for something bigger than themselves. It’s a powerful reminder that leadership is not about personal gain or short-term wins. Leadership, at its core, is about putting others first, making difficult decisions, and building something that lasts beyond your tenure.
This idea hit me again when I visited the memorial with my family. I wanted my kids to understand the gravity of what the monument stands for. It wasn’t just a day out; it was an opportunity to teach them about the sacrifices made by past generations so that we could live in a free and unified country. I wanted them to understand that true leadership is about leaving behind a legacy that others can learn from, one built on integrity, hard work, and selflessness.
Reflection and Solitude at The Liberty Memorial
Not every visit to the Liberty Memorial has been with others. I’ve also gone there by myself, seeking clarity and peace. In a fast-paced world where the next task or challenge is always around the corner, sometimes we need a place to reflect on our journey. For me, the Liberty Memorial has been that place. It’s a quiet space where I can think about what’s next and how to be a better leader, father, and man.
Each visit reminds me of my responsibility to my family, business, and community. It’s about making sure that my legacy reflects the values of service, leadership, and sacrifice.
The Salute That Softened My Heart
That moment with my son Hunter still stands out the most. Standing at the base of the memorial, he raised his hand in a salute without me saying a word. At that moment, I realized that my 26 years of military service and everything I had worked for weren’t just my achievements—they were part of a larger story that I passed down to my children. Seeing Hunter recognize that in his way was one of the proudest moments of my life.
That photo now hangs in my office, reminding me every day of the importance of legacy since then. Legacy is not just about what we achieve during our lifetimes—it’s about what we pass on to the next generation. The Liberty Memorial has come to symbolize that for me.
Why the Liberty Memorial Matters Today
In a time when our nation feels more divided than ever, the Liberty Memorial stands as a symbol of unity. It’s geographically central, representing the heart of the country and the values that unite us: service, sacrifice, and the pursuit of something greater than ourselves. While the new WWI Memorial in DC is a great tribute, the Liberty Memorial in Kansas City holds a special place—where the story began. The lessons of history continue to resonate.
Every time I visit the memorial, I leave with a more profound sense of purpose and responsibility. It’s a reminder that leadership is about more than the here and now—it’s about building something that lasts, something that future generations can look to with pride and understanding.
If you ever get the chance to visit the Liberty Memorial, I highly recommend it. Whether you’re reflecting on your leadership journey or just taking in the history, it’s a place with something powerful to teach us all.
What legacy are you building?
How are you leading today in a way that will impact tomorrow?
Let me know your thoughts in the comments, or share how a place or moment has shaped your view on leadership and legacy.