Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find answers to the questions our participants have asked about the bell tolling. If you have a question that is not addressed here Contact Us and we will be happy to answer it!
What is the National Bell Tolling?
Bells of Peace: A National World War I Remembrance is a national tolling of bells to honor those who served in the Great War. The United States participated from April 6, 1917 to November 11, 1918.
Why should we toll the bells?
Tolling of bells is the traditional way to mark someone’s passing. On special national occasions, bells are tolled in honor of the fallen. November 11 is the 100th anniversary of the signing of the Armistice that ended hostilities in World War I. In the war, 116,516 Americans died and over 200,000 were wounded.
When is the National Bell Tolling?
On Sunday, November 11, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. local time across the United States and its territories.
Where will the National Bell Tolling take place?
In communities, houses of worship, cemeteries, military installations, ships at sea - anywhere that Americans gather to honor their veterans.
Who is sponsoring the National Bell Tolling?
The U.S. World War I Centennial Commission is the sponsor. The Commission was created by Act of Congress in 2013 to honor, commemorate, and educate the public about American participation in World War I. The Pritzker Military Museum and Library, our founding sponsor, also endorses this event. Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion are partners, as are the National Cathedral and the Society of the Honor Guard of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. State World War I commissions and other partners are encouraged to co-sponsor and publicize the event.
How can my community group participate?
At 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, November 11, toll your bells slowly 21 times with a five-second interval between tolls. Groups that do not have bells can render the salute by other available means such as guns, cannons, rifles, and sirens. No bell? No worries. We have a free downloadable smartphone APP that can be used privately or with public address systems. Look for "Bells of Peace" on the Apple App Store or Google Play.
How can I download and customize participation certificates for my participants?
Click here. You may distribute as many certificates as you like.
Why is it important to toll the bells 21 times? We would rather toll our bell once in honor of each of our local veterans killed in combat.
The 21 tolls of the bell symbolize the nation's highest honor. It is based on the 21-gun salute, whose origin is described here. We suggest you toll your bells 21 times, and follow that with an individual toll for each veteran you wish to honor, stating their name before each toll. The ceremony could conclude with Taps or a solemn reading.
Your logo is very attractive. Can we use it to promote our bell tolling?
Yes. You can download and use 4 types of logos at these links: Header Logo Logo in Frame Icon Choose the one that best meets your needs. Just resize it in proportion and do not distort the image!
Where can I get more information?
www.ww1cc.org/bells. At this link, you will be able to find suggestions for songs, poems, and other content you can use for your community event. You can also upload photos, videos, and information about your event, and find links to education and other World War I Centennial information.