MMA Cadets Help Mark 80 Years of the “Iron Curtain” Speech

On Thursday, March 5, 2026, Missouri Military Academy’s Color Guard and Academy Band were honored to participate in ceremonies at Westminster College in Fulton, MO, celebrating the 80th anniversary of Sir Winston Churchill’s historic “Sinews of Peace” speech — often known as the “Iron Curtain” speech.

The occasion carries a special connection to MMA. In 1946, the MMA Band performed for Sir Winston Churchill and President Harry S. Truman during Churchill’s visit to Westminster College for the original address that helped define the early Cold War era.

Forty years later, in 1986, the MMA Band returned to Westminster for the speech’s 40th anniversary celebration, performing for Vice President George H.W. Bush. The band at that time was led by Band Commander Greg Steinmetz and Drum Major Jeff Elliott.

On March 5, 2026, cadets proudly continued that tradition, representing Missouri Military Academy at the same historic site where cadets have stood alongside world leaders for nearly 80 years.