The National World War II Memorial honors all 16 million people who served as part of the American armed forces, including the more than 400,000 who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

The memorial sits along the central vista of the National Mall, at the east end of the Reflecting Pool. It contains 56 granite columns that symbolize unity among the 48 states, seven federal territories and the District of Columbia.

The Freedom Wall of 4,048 Gold Stars pays tribute to American lives lost at war, while dozens of battle names and military campaign destinations are also on display. Two 43-foot tall structures highlight America’s victory on the Atlantic and Pacific fronts during World War II. According to the National Park Service, 4.4 million people visit the memorial each year, including many World War II veterans as part of the Honor Flight Network.

History

World War II veteran Roger Durbin proposed the memorial to Rep. Marcy Kaptur from Ohio in 1987, and the World War II Memorial Act was eventually approved in 1993. Fundraising began in 1994, with total donations reaching $197 million.

The location was settled upon in 1995, and a nationwide design competition saw Friedrich St. Florian’s proposal selected in 1997. Construction began in 2001 and was completed in 2004. On May 29 of that year, a reunion of veterans was held on the National Mall, followed by a dedication by President George W. Bush, whose father and former president was among the 16 million to serve in the Second World War.

Experience

The World War II Memorial is free and open to the public 24 hours a day. Park Rangers are on duty to answer questions from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. daily. Interpretive programs are provided every hour on the hour from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.