George C. Marshall International Center

09/21/2024

in in 1950, George C. Marshall became the U.S. Secretary of Defense. Marshall – who was the first former career military officer to hold the position – brought unrivaled experience to the office, having served as Army Chief of Staff and Secretary of State.

As Defense Secretary, Marshall played a critical role in re-shaping America's flagging strategy during the early stages of the Korean War and worked to strengthen the coordination and readiness of U.S. forces during a tense period early in the Cold War.

Marshall’s tenure ended in September of 1951 when he retired to Dodona Manor in Leesburg, Virginia after 49 years of public service.

His wisdom and remarkable dedication to public service continue to inspire leaders today. We are proud to play a role in bringing to life the timeless values Marshall embodied to develop visionary leaders worldwide.

09/17/2024

September 19 Foreign Policy Forum with Marc Susser – “Troubled Waters: Inside the U.S.-Cuba Relationship”

Join us on Thursday, September 19 from Noon – 1 p.m. ET for a Zoom discussion with international affairs expert Marc Susser, who will discuss the U.S.-Cuba relationship from his inside perspective as a former senior U.S. diplomat in Cuba.

Susser spent almost 37 years with the U.S. Department of State. His final position before retiring in 2021 was as a Senior Advisor in the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor.

He joined the Foreign Service in 1984, moved to the Civil Service in 1994 and became a member of the Senior Executive Service in 2001. Susser served overseas in Mexico and Spain, as well as in several offices in the Department, including as a country desk officer for Cuba. He negotiated with the Cubans, Russians and Chinese, as well as in the UN arena.

Susser has been awarded the State Department’s Superior Honor Award twice, its Meritorious Honor Award twice, the Secretary’s Award for Public Outreach and a Senior Executive Service Presidential Rank Award. He earned his doctorate in history from Harvard University.

Register now to participate:

TROUBLED WATERS: INSIDE THE U.S.-CUBA RELATIONSHIP DISCUSSION WITH MARC SUSSER

09/13/2024

Students, parents and teachers: a few spots remain for our FREE Ethical Leadership Training for high school students September 27 & 28 in Leesburg, VA – spread the word!

This engaging and interactive in-person leadership education event for high school juniors and seniors in the DMV is a unique opportunity to shape your approach to leadership and decision-making drawing on the life of one of the most remarkable and influential leaders in American history.

📅 Date: Friday, September 27 (evening) and Saturday, September 28 (all day)
📍 Location: Leesburg, Virginia

Don't miss this opportunity to build your leadership skills for a brighter future.

Learn more, share with your networks and register now! https://www.georgecmarshall.org/elc

Loudoun County Public Schools
Fairfax County Public Schools
The Fauquier County Public Schools

09/12/2024

Call To Artists ¬– Submit Your Photos of Dodona for Leesburg’s Town Calendar. The Town of Leesburg’s Commission on Public Art is seeking photograph and artwork submissions for the upcoming 2025 Town calendar. If you’ve taken a favorite photo in or around Dodona Manor taken this year, we encourage you to submit it for consideration!

The deadline is November 1 – full guidelines and submission information are available here!

https://www.leesburgva.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/41976/638585495870000000

09/10/2024

September 18 Off Duty Features Selfless Loudoun Leaders: The Enduring Legacy of George Marshall and Claude Moore

Join us Wednesday, September 18 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at St. James’ Episcopal Church in Leesburg for an engaging discussion with Dr. Robert Holcomb & John H. Cook IV, Senior Deputy Executive Director and Chief Legal Counsel at the Claude Moore Charitable Foundation.

Holcomb and Cook will discuss two of Virginia’s most respected residents, George C. Marshall and Dr. Claude Moore, who shared a dedication to selfless public service and philanthropy. Both men, who were World War I veterans, came away from the conflict with a deep understanding of their duty to serve our nation.

Prior to the main discussion, join Marshall Center docents from 5:30 – 6:00 p.m. for short presentations about historical St. James Church and General Marshall's connection to it.

Off Duty is a speaker series hosted by the Marshall Center. Events feature a speaker discussing topics that touch on history adjacent to George C. Marshall. Runtime: 90 min.
https://www.georgecmarshall.org/events/2024/off-duty-sept18

09/06/2024

Marshall Center “Time for Leadership” Series Examines Pivotal Decision Points in Final Months of WWII

Starting in June 2024, when we marked the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings in Normandy, the Marshall Center launched an effort to share insights from the final months of World War II, when leadership made all the difference. From the “longest day” of June 6, 1944, to the signing of Japanese surrender on September 2, 1945, allied leaders navigated a series of pivot points on the way to final victory over fascism and preparation for the Allies to “win the peace.”

We encourage you to check out the latest in our ongoing series of articles posted on our home page, which examine key decision points and leadership lessons from this historic period, including:

“Keep the Main Thing: The Post-Normandy Debate,” which analyzes the high-stakes debate within the Allied ranks over how to ensure the success of Operation Overlord and the liberation of Western Europe following the Normandy invasion, and

“Dear and Admirable Allies: The Enduring Leadership Lessons of the Liberation of Paris,” which explores how this iconic achievement on the Allies’ road to victory in Europe illustrates leadership qualities General Marshall demonstrated throughout his storied career – effective teamwork, listening to partners and sharing credit for success.

Over the coming months, we will share other stories about how General Marshall and his fellow leaders arrived at decisions during this exceptionally chaotic and confusing 15-month period.

https://www.georgecmarshall.org/

08/29/2024

Attention High School Students. Fall ethical leadership sessions September 27/28 & October 30.

We're excited to offer two sessions of our transformative – and FREE – Ethical Leadership Training program for high school students in the next two months.

The first two-day session will take place the evening of Friday, September 27 and all day Saturday, September 28. The October session is a 1-day program during a Loudoun County professional development day. Both will be packed with unique and fun opportunities to learn and grow as a leader.

Student Voices:
“I believe that everyone—regardless of career choice, background and opinions—can take something important away from this discussion.”

“You will go into this conference with a certain framework, and [come out] with a richer or completely different one.”
Learn more and apply today!

https://www.georgecmarshall.org/elc

08/27/2024

A Heartwarming Harvest!

Meet Ava, who pitched in a joined her grandmother – our wonderful garden volunteer Diane Jenquine – in harvesting delicious vegetables from our garden last weekend.
The fruits of their labor have been donated to Loudoun Hunger Relief, a local food bank in Leesburg.

Here’s to the power of family and the joy of giving!

08/23/2024

“Dear and Admirable Allies": Leadership Lessons from the Liberation of Paris

The newest article in our “Time for Leadership” series examines how the liberation of Paris from N**i occupation 80 years ago came to be with a focus on the selfless leaders who understood that changing course and sharing credit could not only liberate a great city, but also inspire the people of France and the world.

As General Marshall demonstrated throughout his storied career, strong and effective leaders understand the importance of teamwork, listening to their partners and sharing credit for success.

08/20/2024

Check out this excellent post by Amy Albers of Savvy Mama Lifestyle on Loudoun County’s many wonderful destinations, including Dodona Manor and our friends at Bear Chase Brewing Company, Tuscarora Mill Restaurant and Birch Tree Bookstore!

“George C. Marshall may not be a name you immediately recognize, but it should be. General Marshall was vital to an Allied win in World War II, and his Marshall Plan was instrumental in helping Europe recover economically after the war. Despite his fame and stature, Marshall and his family lived in a decidedly down-to-earth manner. His 19th-century home is open for 75-minute tours Friday through Sunday.”

Outside Washington, D.C., are mountains, farms, historic towns, and wine - lots of wine. Loudoun County, VA is a gem waiting for discovery.

08/20/2024

08/15/2024

New Article Alert: “Keep the Main Thing”: The Post-Normandy Debate (August 1944)

We are pleased to present the latest in our “Time for Leadership” series, which highlights pivotal decision points during the final months of World War II 80 years ago.

The newest installment examines the strategic importance of Operation Anvil (later known as Operation Dragoon). As the Allies pushed forward post-Normandy, high-stakes debates raged on how best to maintain momentum and secure victory in Europe. Discover how the differing visions of Churchill and Marshall shaped the course of history – and how the lessons of that time resonate today.

https://www.georgecmarshall.org/news/keep-the-main-thing

For the United States and Great Britain, Germany was always the main thing. In January 1942, they agreed to prioritize the war against German forces in Europe over all other efforts, including the war on Japan. But for the next two years, American and British strategists would engage in lengthy and

08/13/2024

Looking forward to a busy September!

As you enjoy summer vacation with friends & family, don’t forget to mark your calendars and RSVP for a stimulating slate of events we have planned for September.

Next month, we are hosting a virtual Book Club meeting with author Michael Vickers on 9/4, two Off Duty Speaker Events (9/11 with David Taylor and 9/18 with Dr. Robert Holcomb & John H. Cook IV) and a 9/19 virtual Foreign Policy Forum on the U.S. – Cuba relationship with Marc Susser.

Learn more and register on our events page:

https://www.georgecmarshall.org/events

08/08/2024

Join Author Michael Vickers for Special Zoom Book Club Event – Wednesday Sept 4, 2024 at Noon.

On Wednesday, September 4 from Noon-1 p.m., author Michael Vickers will join our monthly Zoom book club series to share insights about his memoir By All Means Available, which The New York Times Book Review called “A vivid insider’s account of a life in intelligence, special operations, and strategy from the Cold War to the war with Al-Qaeda.”

We hope you will join us for this fantastic opportunity to interact directly with the author, who has served multiple roles in the Department of Defense and the intelligence community, most recently as undersecretary of defense for intelligence under President Barack Obama.

We are proud to partner with the Loudoun County Public Library who makes available multiple copies of this book for checkout at the Rust Library.

RSVP Today!

By All Means Available BY Michael Vickers

08/06/2024

Exciting Announcement: Fall Session of Ethical Leadership Training for High School Students September 27-28!

Mark your calendars – the fall session of “Five-Star Character: The George C. Marshall Ethical Leadership Conference” for high school juniors and seniors will take place on the evening of Friday 9/27 and on Saturday 9/28.

This free conference leverages lessons from the life and example of George C. Marshall, whose life as a soldier and statesman serves as a positive and timeless model of effective ethical leadership and “five-star character.” Using examples from Marshall’s long career of service, participants learn and apply these enduring lessons in a modern context.

Praise from ELC alumni:

“A wonderful opportunity, one that makes me very hopeful for our future and the leaders in it.”

“I think everyone should take advantage of the opportunity to better yourself.”

Don’t miss out – apply today!
https://www.georgecmarshall.org/elc-application

08/02/2024

Dodona Public Tours Resume!

We're thrilled to announce that Dodona Manor has reopened its doors for public tours after undergoing repairs caused by a fire that damaged a small portion of the front porch in early July. We have resumed our regular schedule of tours every Friday (11 a.m.–2 p.m.), Saturday (10 a.m.–3:30 p.m.) and Sunday (11 a.m.–2 p.m.).

Step back in time and experience the rich history, stunning architecture, and captivating stories that make this historic gem so special. Walk-ins are welcome, but we recommend that you check our online schedule to make sure we are ready to welcome you.

We remain deeply appreciative for the professionalism and skills of Loudoun County Fire and Rescue and our wonderful docents, whose vigilance prevented more serious damage from occurring.

Tour Information: https://www.georgecmarshall.org/dodona

08/01/2024

“The truly great leader overcomes all difficulties, and campaigns and battles are nothing but a long series of difficulties to be overcome. The lack of equipment, the lack of food, the lack of this or that are only excuses; the real leader displays his quality in his triumphs over adversity, however great it may be. - George C. Marshall

George C. Marshall's leadership lessons are as relevant today as they were in his time. His emphasis on teamwork, preparedness and integrity resonate across generations. His commitment to diplomacy, peace and global cooperation remains a beacon of hope in today's world.

07/31/2024

"Remembering Alma Powell: A Legacy of Grace and Selfless Service"

We were saddened to learn of the recent passing of Alma Johnson Powell, wife of the late Secretary of State Colin Powell. In many ways, General Powell embodied General Marshall’s timeless model of selfless, effective ethical leadership and “five-star character.”

Ethical leaders don’t work in a vacuum – they grow and thrive thanks to the support of families who often make enormous sacrifices. As we remember Alma Powell, we salute the strength and guidance of those who stand at the side of those who serve our nation.

Read our full tribute:

We were saddened to learn of the recent passing of Alma Johnson Powell, wife of the late Secretary of State Colin Powell. In many ways, General Powell embodied General Marshall’s timeless model of selfless, effective ethical leadership and “five-star character.” The Marshall Center extends its...

07/30/2024

In a new profile of “2024's 10 Most Beautiful Small Towns in Virginia,” Worldatlas.com prominently features the Town of Leesburg, Virginia and Dodona Manor!

“The downtown district showcases Leesburg's history through iconic landmarks, including George C. Marshall's Dodona Manor. This National Historic Landmark dates back to the late 19th century and preserves the former home of a US Army Chief of Staff.” – World Atlas

https://www.worldatlas.com/cities/2024-s-10-most-beautiful-small-towns-in-virginia.html

07/26/2024

Congress Advances Marshall Center National Park Service Designation

This week, Marshall Center Board Member Randy Minchew testified before the House Committee on Natural Resources Federal Lands Subcommittee on behalf of the George Marshall House Affiliated Area Designation Bill, which would designate Dodona Manor as an affiliated area under the National Park Service(NPS).

Thank you to Randy Minchew for your excellent testimony and to Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, and Senator Mark Warner for their efforts to advance this legislation.

Learn more here:

This week, Marshall Center Board Member Randy Minchew testified before the House Committee on Natural Resources Federal Lands Subcommittee on behalf of the George Marshall House Affiliated Area Designation Bill, which would designate Dodona Manor as an affiliated area under the National Park Service

07/25/2024

A Time for Leadership: Operation Cobra and General Omar Bradley

80 years ago today, Operation Cobra was set into motion, marking a decisive turn in the Normandy Campaign. Commanded by General Omar Bradley, this operation aimed to allow allied forces to break out of their Normandy beachhead and pave the way for the liberation of France.

After the successful landings on June 6, 1944, allied forces were bottled up by stubborn German defenses that maximized the thick vegetation and narrow roads along the Normandy coast. Operation Cobra, which took place July 25-July 31, was a strategic breakthrough that facilitated the rapid advance of Allied forces across France. Innovative air and ground tactics were used in coordination to overwhelm German positions.

The operation showcased Bradley's exceptional command skills and dedication to his soldiers. General Marshall once described Bradley as "quiet, unassuming, capable, with sound common sense. Absolute dependability. Give him a job and forget it."

Known as the "GI General," Bradley's leadership during was instrumental in Operation Cobra’s success. His meticulous planning and innovative tactics ensured a rapid and effective breakthrough of the German defenses.

07/23/2024

This warning, issued by the U.S. War Department during World War II, appealed to American audiences through its image of George C. Marshall, whose national profile and popularity surged as he served as Army Chief of Staff from 1939-1945.

Featuring Marshall’s signature and a small portrait sketch, this particular notice was part of a broad effort by the U.S. government to inform the American people about the importance of safeguarding sensitive military information from Axis agents.

07/18/2024

On June 24, 2024, the George C. Marshall International Center established its own Little Free Library on the grounds of Dodona Manor.

This library was constructed with the help of high school students attending the Marshall Center’s inaugural Camp Marshall – a free, 3-day summer leadership experience.

Working together to construct, paint and position the structure, the 16 young leaders worked to install and stock the library on the front lawn alongside East Market Street in Leesburg. Each camper supplied a list of books they considered meaningful to fill the library and wrote personalized notes inside their books.

Selections included Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Macbeth, Wonder, I Will Always Write Back, The Great Gatsby, The Richest Man in Babylon and Prisoner B-3087.

The library’s design emulates the iconic red roof and yellow brick of Dodona Manor. Look closely and see that even the orange lilies in the garden are represented on the sides. The campers who worked on the library all signed the back to commemorate their efforts.

Special thanks to Rotary Club member Ernie Carnevale for donating his time and efforts to help us bring the library to life!

07/16/2024

Off Duty: Date Changed to September 11

The temperature and impending rain storm are working against us this week, so we have made the decision to reschedule David Taylor's Off Duty event to September 11.

If you already registered for the talk or a tour, we will keep your registration intact for September 11. If you are unable to attend now, please email [email protected] and let us know.

RSVP link is here

MOVED FROM JULY TO SEPT From a story of a flagpole raising at a little-know Army post to the full tale of a World War II-era clandestine program, run out of Fort Hunt, linking top secret Military Intelligence Service X (or MiSX) unit to U.S. POWs held in 63 German POW camps. Hear the amazing story f...

07/11/2024

Thank You to Loudoun County Fire and Rescue!

Earlier today, a small portion of the front porch of Dodona Manor caught on fire. Our on-the-ball docents smelled smoke quickly, and the fire department was immediately called. The firefighters worked efficiently to stamp out the flames and contain the damage to a small section of the porch cover — parts that can be quickly replaced. We are so appreciative of the professionalism and skills of our firefighters. We are cancelling this weekend’s public tours so we can address the damage, but will be back on schedule by next Friday.

07/11/2024

Join us Wednesday, July 17 from 5:30 – 7 p.m.for an in-person discussion of a World War II-era clandestine program that linked Military Intelligence to US POWs with Peabody and Emmy Award winning documentary film producer, director and writer, David Taylor.

It started with a single paragraph in The Washington Post. A flagpole was being raised at a little-know Army post—Fort Hunt, VA—to honor a then-secret U.S. Army unit set up during World War II, while George Marshall was Chief of Staff. Taylor was intrigued. Eventually, the full story emerged. A World War II-era clandestine program, run out of Fort Hunt, had linked the top-secret Military Intelligence Service X (or MiSX) unit to U.S. prisoners of war held in 63 German POW camps. MiSX was based on the British program known as MI9. The MiSX effort had provided the real story behind the legendary film “the Great Escape.”

Off Duty is an outdoor speaker series hosted by the George C. Marshall International Center. Each event features a speaker discussing a topic that touches on history adjacent to George C. Marshall and the times in which he lived. The events run around 90 minutes, with light refreshments and opportunities for networking before and after the discussion.

RSVP Today!
https://www.georgecmarshall.org/events/2024/off-duty-07

07/10/2024

As allied leaders gather in Washington, DC this week for the 2024 NATO Summit, we are reminded of General Marshall’s visionary leadership in the founding of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), which has been a cornerstone of international peace and security for 75 years.

In the aftermath of World War II, Marshall was among the leaders who recognized the need for a collective defense and security agreement to protect western democracies from Soviet aggression. As Secretary of State, Marshall was directly involved in drafting and promoting the North Atlantic Treaty, signed on April 4, 1949.

Today, NATO continues to play a pivotal role by adapting to new threats and challenges while upholding the principles of collective defense and cooperative security that Marshall championed. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, Marshall's vision reminds us of the power of cooperation and solidarity in building a safer, more secure future for all.

07/09/2024

Over the years, the Marshalls received countless gifts from their acquaintances around the world as tokens of their appreciation and friendship.

This arrangement of figures - a traditional Chinese wedding procession - was gifted to the Marshalls by Madame Chiang Kai-Shek, a Chinese political representative.

Come visit us soon to see this item on full display in the Marshall’s beloved library!

07/04/2024

On Independence Day, Americans come together to reflect on our shared values of liberty, democracy and the pursuit of a brighter future for all.

As we celebrate our nation’s independence, we remember the vision and leadership of General George C. Marshall, whose legacy of service to nation and commitment to democratic values continues to inspire us.

Join us in commemorating the remarkable history of our country and the enduring principles that make us proud to be Americans.

Wishing everyone a safe and joyous 4th of July! 🎇✨

07/02/2024

New Article: "A Time for Leadership: Marshall and Final Victory in World War II"

In the wake of the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings in Normandy, the Marshall Center is preparing to share insights from the final months of World War II, when leadership made all the difference. From the “longest day” of June 6, 1944, to the signing of Japanese surrender on September 2, 1945, allied leaders navigated a series of pivot points on the way to final victory over fascism and preparation for the Allies to “win the peace.”

In coming months, we will consider how General Marshall and his fellow leaders arrived at decisions during this exceptionally chaotic and confusing 15-month period. We will also invite contemporary leaders to share their insights into the risks and challenges leaders face—and overcome—in uncertain times, asking them how they decide the problem even as they navigate the fog of uncertainty.

In war, as in all human endeavors, there are no perfect solutions to the problems people face. No matter what action we take, there is always some degree of doubt, risk and unintended consequence. That reality confronts leaders at all levels at all times.