For 100 years, the Guardian Spirits have stood atop the National WWI Museum and Memorial. They were carved to represent Honor, Courage, Sacrifice and Patriotism – the virtues a generation lived out, and Kansas City vowed to remember. The Guardian Spirit Award carries that legacy forward, honoring individuals and organizations who embody those same virtues today.
This award recognizes an individual of unwavering integrity and moral bravery, whose service has asked for nothing in return. It honors years, not days, spent advancing a cause larger than themselves. Guardian Spirit honorees strengthen democratic institutions and defend the constitutional principles so many have fought to protect, earning the respect of people who do not always agree with each other. The Guardian Spirit Award celebrates those whose characters speak for themselves.
The Guardian Spirit Award will be presented at the Museum and Memorial's Centennial Gala on Sept. 21, 2026, and is part of its ongoing work to preserve the memory of WWI and champion the ideals it was fought to defend.
