WASHINGTON - Legislation backed by U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill to designate the Liberty Memorial as the host of a new World War I Centennial Commission is now headed to the President's desk to be signed into law. The U.S. House cleared the bill Sunday night, after receiving an amended version that reflected a deal McCaskill struck in the Senate to save the bill.

"The Liberty Memorial in Kansas City is the perfect location to headquarter this important work," McCaskill said. "The hardworking folks at the memorial will ensure this commission is a productive group that proudly provides for a nationwide commemoration of the centennial of the ‘Great War.'"

The legislation, which passed the Senate late last month and was approved in the U.S. House this week, establishes a twelve member commission that will be responsible for planning, developing and executing programs, projects and activities to commemorate the centennial of World War I. The Commission will also develop recommendations for Congress and the President for commemorating the centennial.

The legislation has the support of Senator Roy Blunt, as well as Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II, who has championed efforts on behalf of the Liberty Memorial in the House. The legislation reflects a compromise struck by McCaskill that enabled the Kansas City-based Commission to be established. Work will continue on other aspects of commemorating the Great War, including reviewing the possibility of providing for a new World War I Memorial in Washington, D.C., and recognizing the Liberty Memorial as a national memorial, thereby matching the status of the National World War I Museum at the Liberty Memorial.

Last year, McCaskill introduced legislation to designate the Liberty Memorial in Kansas City as a National World War I Museum and Memorial.

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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