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Contributor: Elephango Editors. Lesson ID: 11854
Step into history and explore the powerful symbols, stories, and sacrifices honored at the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C.
A Place of Honor and Memory
Imagine standing in front of a towering fountain, surrounded by granite pillars that each tell a piece of history. As you walk through, you see a wall covered in thousands of golden stars—each representing 100 lives lost.
The World War II Memorial is more than just a monument; it's a tribute to the bravery, sacrifice, and resilience of those who fought in one of the most devastating conflicts in history.
Step back in time and uncover the story behind this remarkable site.
Building a Memorial for the Greatest Generation
A Long Road to Recognition
The idea for a World War II Memorial didn’t happen overnight. In fact, it took over a decade to become reality.
In 1987, World War II veteran Roger Durbin began pushing for a national monument to honor those who served. But getting approval wasn’t easy.
Year after year, Congress dismissed the idea, and it wasn’t until 1993 that President Bill Clinton signed the World War II Memorial Act into law. With this, the long-awaited process of designing and building the memorial could finally begin.
The Design Competition
Much like other famous landmarks in Washington, D.C., a nationwide design competition was held. Over 400 architects submitted their ideas.
In 1997, Austrian-American architect Friedrich St.Florian won with an elaborate design centered around a grand fountain. His plan featured a ring of 56 granite pillars, two massive arches, and detailed imagery representing the war’s Pacific and European theaters.
Right between the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial—a fitting spot in the heart of the National Mall.
From Blueprint to Reality
In 2001, construction officially began, and after three years of careful craftsmanship, the memorial was completed in 2004.
Here’s what makes this memorial unique.
56 Granite Pillars
Each pillar stands 17 feet tall and represents a U.S. state or territory that contributed to the war effort. At the time of World War II, the U.S. had only 48 states. Alaska and Hawaii, still territories then, are included alongside Washington, D.C., and five other U.S. territories.
Two Massive Arches
Labeled "Atlantic" and "Pacific," these represent the two main battlefronts of World War II.
Historical Imagery
Throughout the memorial, bronze relief panels tell the story of a soldier’s journey, from enlistment to combat to homecoming.
The Freedom Wall
This part of the memorial delivers a powerful message. Inscribed with the words “Here we mark the price of freedom,” the wall features 4,048 gold stars. Each star represents 100 American soldiers who died during the war, a somber reminder of the war’s cost.
Walking through the World War II Memorial is like stepping into history, where every pillar, arch, and star tells a story of sacrifice and resilience.
Now that you know how this powerful tribute came to be, it's time to test your knowledge and take a closer look at its many symbolic elements. Head to the Got It? section.
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