Honoring Our Veterans

By Shauna Osborne

In November, we honor our country’s service members through the observance of National Veterans and Military Families Month, with Veterans Day falling on November 11. It’s a time for all of us to humbly reflect on and pay tribute to those who have served our country in war or peace, to commemorate the service, sacrifices, and contributions of our veterans and military families. We all recognize 2020 has been a challenging year in the U.S.; what better time to pay a visit to one (or more!) of our nation’s great monuments and memorials that honor American soldiers, past and present?

National World War II Memorial:

Washington, D.C.

This newest and largest of the numerous war memorials in the D.C. area (alongside those dedicated to WWI and the Korean and Vietnam Wars) recognizes the more than 16 million U.S. armed forces members who served during World War II and the civilians who supported the war effort on the home front. The site features a wall with over 4,000 gold stars, paying tribute to those whose lives were lost; 56 granite columns, symbolizing U.S. states and territories; and two majestic arches, representing the Atlantic and Pacific.

National Memorial Arch:

King of Prussia, PA

This monument, located in Valley Forge National Historical Park, was erected to commemorate the struggles of General George Washington and his troops during the Revolutionary War and symbolize victory for American forces. The arch was dedicated in 1917 and stands over 60 feet high. Don’t miss the visitor center, introductory film, and self-guided driving tour of the park.

African American Civil War Memorial:

Washington, D.C.

This memorial, entitled “The Spirit of Freedom,” tells the story of the over 200,000 long-overlooked, heroic Black soldiers and sailors who served in the Civil War in the United States Colored Troops, helping to end the war and free over 4 million enslaved people. The nearby African American Civil War Museum celebrates the historic roles these brave men of African and Hispanic descent played in this devastating war.

Women in Military Service for American Memorial:

Arlington, VA

Dedicated in 1997, this memorial honors the over 3 million women who have helped defend our country over its near-250-year history and is the only major national memorial dedicated to women and “their devoted patriotism and bravery as an integral part of our national heritage.” The site also includes a curved retaining wall, reflecting pool, and an education center.