7th Annual Spirit of Democracy Banquet
The Stars and Stripes National Museum and Library cordially invites you to the 7th Annual Spirit of Democracy Banquet and Silent Auction. This premiere event brings together community members, veterans, and history enthusiasts for a night of camaraderie, support, and inspiring storytelling in Cape Girardeau, Missouri.
Featuring Keynote Speaker: Alex Kershaw
We are honored to welcome New York Times best-selling author and historian Alex Kershaw as our keynote guest. Kershaw is internationally acclaimed for his ability to bring history to life, weaving personal narratives of courage and sacrifice into unforgettable accounts.
His acclaimed works include:
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The Bedford Boys: The poignant story of the small Virginia community that suffered the highest per capita losses on D-Day.
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The Liberator: The intense 500-day odyssey of U.S. Army officer Felix Sparks, now a major Netflix series.
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Against All Odds: A gripping account of four of the most decorated soldiers of World War II.
As the Resident Historian for the Friends of the National WWII Memorial, Kershaw offers a powerful look at the “Greatest Generation” and the enduring spirit required to defend democracy.
Event Details
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Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
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Time: Doors open at 5:00 PM | Program begins at 6:00 PM
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Location: Osage Centre, Cape Girardeau, MO
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Highlights: Gourmet dinner, live music, and a silent auction featuring exclusive local items and historical memorabilia.
Ticket & Sponsorship Tiers
Choose the level of support that works best for you and your guests:
| Tier | Price | Highlights |
| General Admission | $125 | Admission for one, gourmet dinner, cash bar, and exhibit access. |
| Table of 8 | $1,000 | Reserved table for eight, program recognition, and social media mention. |
| Bronze Sponsor | $1,500 | Reserved table (8 seats, 2nd row), logo on materials, and social media. |
| Silver Sponsor | $2,500 | Two reserved tables (16 seats, 2nd row), banner recognition, enhanced media. |
| Gold Sponsor | $5,000 | Two premier front-row tables (16 seats), elite banner/material placement, and sponsor spotlight. |
Support Our Mission
Proceeds from the banquet and silent auction directly benefit the Stars and Stripes National Museum and Library. Your attendance funds our ongoing digitization projects, vital educational programming for local youth, and the preservation of artifacts that tell the stories of American servicemembers from the Civil War to the present day.
Reserve your seats early! Last year’s event was a sell-out; don’t miss this incredible evening with one of the world’s leading military historians. For more information, please browse our latest exhibits or contact the museum today.