You’ve been thinking about visiting a veterans’ memorial. Maybe because you’re a United States veteran yourself, or you have relatives or friends who served in the armed forces. Maybe because you have a deep interest in military history. Or you just want to pay your respects to the men and women who dedicated their lives to the nation.
If you’re curious about where you can go to hear the stories of those who served, let’s look at some must-visit memorials that honor United States veterans. You can find these solemn tributes all across the nation, from the shores of Hawaii to the heart of Washington, D.C.
USS Arizona Memorial
The USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii marks the resting place of 1,102 of the 1,177 sailors and Marines killed on the USS Arizona during the attack on December 7, 1941. This solemn site straddles the sunken hull of the battleship. A helpful tip for visiting the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor is to reserve your tickets online in advance; this will secure your spot for the short boat trip to the memorial.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a poignant tribute to the service members of the U.S. armed forces who fought in the Vietnam War. The main part of the memorial is The Wall, a long black granite wall where the names of more than 58,000 Americans who died or remain missing are inscribed. It’s a powerful space for reflection and remembrance.
Women in Military Service for America Memorial
Also near Washington, D.C., at the entrance to Arlington National Cemetery, you’ll find the Women in Military Service for America Memorial. This memorial honors all women who have served in or with the United States Armed Forces. It’s a unique structure that preserves and tells the stories of women’s contributions throughout the nation’s history, with an education center, exhibits, and a database of registered servicewomen.
Korean War Veterans Memorial
Another memorial on the National Mall is dedicated to those who served in the Korean War. The Korean War Veterans Memorial features 19 stainless steel statues of soldiers, which represent an ethnic cross-section of America. These figures are reflected in a polished granite wall, creating the appearance of 38 soldiers, which symbolizes the 38th parallel that separated North and South Korea.
National World War II Memorial
The National World War II Memorial, situated between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument in D.C., honors the 16 million who served in the armed forces of the U.S. during the Second World War. The memorial features 56 granite pillars, symbolizing the states and territories, and a wall of 4,048 gold stars. Each star represents 100 Americans who gave their lives in the war.
Your Visit to Honor Veterans
A trip to these must-visit memorials that honor United States veterans is a profound and emotional experience. That shouldn’t stop you from visiting. By paying your respects, you keep the memory of these brave souls alive and show gratitude for their sacrifice.
