WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill's effort to designate the Liberty Memorial in Kansas City as the National World War I Museum and Memorial is one step closer to success with unanimous approval from a U.S. House panel.

"This is great news for Kansas City and for the Liberty Memorial, where folks have worked tirelessly to commemorate the lives of our men and women who gave so much to their country serving in the ‘Great War,'" McCaskill said. "Dedicating this site is an important way to ensure future generations understand the impact this war had on our nation and all the freedoms we enjoy today."

The legislation approved by the House Natural Resources Committee in an effort led by Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, includes the language introduced by McCaskill last year that will specifically designate the Liberty Memorial in Kansas City as the National World War I Museum and Memorial.

As the WWI centennial approaches, the legislation also provides for the formation of a commission to design and implement a proper nationwide commemoration of the centennial. The commission will be based in Kansas City and will feature the city as a focal point in the development of the centennial activities.

McCaskill, the daughter of a World War II veteran, has served on the Senate Armed Services Committee since joining the Senate in 2006. Read more about McCaskill's work for veterans by clicking HERE.

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