The National WWII Museum in New Orleans has unveiled "Voices from the Front," an innovative exhibit that allows visitors to engage in lifelike conversations with AI-powered representations of World War II veterans and home front workers. Developed in collaboration with StoryFile, the exhibit features 18 interactive video interviews, enabling guests to ask questions and receive authentic responses drawn from extensive pre-recorded sessions.

Each participant, including Medal of Honor recipient Hershel "Woody" Williams and USO dancer Margaret Kerry-Boeke, answered up to 1,000 questions during filming. The AI system utilizes voice recognition to match visitor inquiries with the most relevant video responses, creating a personalized and immersive experience. This approach preserves firsthand accounts of the war, ensuring that the stories of the "Greatest Generation" remain accessible to future audiences.

The Smithsonian Magazine highlights the exhibit's impact, noting how it bridges the gap between past and present by allowing direct interaction with historical figures. As the number of living WWII veterans declines, "Voices from the Front" serves as a vital tool for education and remembrance.

“Preserving the personal accounts of those who served and sacrificed in defense of our freedom during World War II is at the foundation of our mission,” says Stephen Watson, president and CEO of the museum, in a statement. “This powerful addition to the museum will give visitors the ability to authentically connect with these individuals, creating an effective way to carry on their memories of the sights, sounds, terrors and triumphs of the war for generations to come.”

Coverage on CBS News:

For further information, please refer to the following articles:

• Digital Signage Today

• Forbes

• The Washington Post

• The Art Newspaper

  
  

Experience the exhibit in person at the National WWII Museum or visit their webpage at at nationalww2museum.org .com.