Veterans commemorate the 20th anniversary of the opening of the World War II Memorial
The World War II Memorial in DC celebrated its 20th anniversary Saturday, honoring the men and women who died during worldwide combat.
The Joint Armed Forces Color Guard presenting the colors. (OMP/Luke Lukert)
WTOP/Luke Lukert
Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Admiral Christopher Grady speaks during the ceremony. (OMP/Luke Lukert)
WTOP/Luke Lukert
Veterans of the Second World War remember those who passed by and lay wreaths at the Wall of Freedom, where 4,048 golden stars each represent the 100 soldiers killed in the conflict. (OMP/Luke Lukert)
WTOP/Luke Lukert
A World War II veteran lays a wreath. (OMP/Luke Lukert)
WTOP/Luke Lukert
A World War II veteran stands and salutes the crowd. (OMP/Luke Lukert)
WTOP/Luke Lukert
The World War II Memorial in DC celebrated its 20th anniversary Saturday, honoring the men and women who died during worldwide combat.
“Today, we pay tribute to the millions of courageous men and women who answered the call of freedom in their hour of greatest need,” said Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Admiral Christopher Grady during the ceremony.
Several war veterans were there to remember those who passed by and laid wreaths at the Freedom Wall, where 4,048 golden stars each represent the 100 servicemen who were killed in the conflict.
“Each of them represents a huge part of our civilization,” said World War II Merchant Marine veteran Dave Yoho as he described some of the impossible odds they faced, like D-Day.
Sergeant Harry Miller was just 16 years old when he fought in the Battle of the Bulge. He, along with few other veterans, share a sacred bond.
“I always get really emotional about it because it means a lot to me. …I just can’t help it when I get here, I feel like this is where I belong. I don’t know why, but I feel like this is where I belong,” Miller said.
Marine Lieutenant Commander Jeffery Donahue, 101, was grateful for the support of strangers on this day.
“Very grateful,” Donahue said. “That’s why we did it.”
Ohio Representative Marcy Kaptur, responsible for a bill to create the World War II Memorial in 1987, was honored for her efforts in front of the central fountain.
“The World War II Memorial was built to honor the human sacrifice that defines the profound achievement of the 20th century,” said Kaptur.
Get the latest news and daily headlines in your email inbox by signing up here.
© 2024 WTOP. All rights reserved. This website is not intended for users located in the European Economic Area.
