National World War Ii Memorial Day

Group of diverse people, dressed in 1940s attire, standing solemnly in front of the National World War II Memorial, Washington D.C., with American flags waving in the background.. — National world war ii memorial day illustration

Welcome to the fabulous National World War II Memorial Day! Prepare yourself to dive into the rich history of this day and discover some mind-blowing facts that will leave you in awe. So let's not waste any more time and get right into it!

When is World War Ii Memorial Day?

It's national world war ii memorial day on the 28th May.

The Internet History of National World War II Memorial Day

Every year on National World War II Memorial Day, we take a moment to remember and honor the brave men and women who fought selflessly during one of the darkest periods in our history. This day holds a special place in the hearts of many as we commemorate the end of World War II and pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Originally observed on the anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (May 8), National World War II Memorial Day has become a monumental event that unites people around the globe in remembrance. From solemn ceremonies to educational activities, this day allows us to reflect on the heroes of the past and the victories they achieved.

The idea of dedicating a whole day to honor the memory of those involved in World War II gained traction in the early days of the internet. Online communities, history enthusiasts, and veterans' groups came together to push for the official recognition of National World War II Memorial Day. On this day, people wanted to ensure that the sacrifices made during the war were never forgotten.

Finally, in 1999, the U.S. Congress officially designated May 28th as National World War II Memorial Day. It was a momentous occasion that marked the significance of this historic event and solidified the importance of remembrance. Since then, people from all walks of life celebrate this day by participating in various activities that honor the memory of those who fought and fell.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the National World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C., is visited by millions of people every year? This stunning monument stands as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of those who served during World War II. It's a place of reflection and gratitude, reminding us of the tremendous legacy left by the Greatest Generation.

History behind the term 'World War Ii Memorial'

1943

Proposal for a memorial

In 1943, during the midst of World War II, a proposal was made for the construction of a memorial to honor the brave men and women who served and sacrificed their lives during the war. The idea was to create a tangible tribute to commemorate the tremendous efforts and contributions of the armed forces and civilians involved in the war.

1926

The Origin of Veterans of Foreign Wars

In 1926, a group of veterans decided to form an organization called Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) to provide support and camaraderie to veterans who had served overseas in the military. The VFW quickly grew in size and influence, becoming one of the largest and most influential veterans' organizations in the United States.

1939

Outbreak of World War II

In 1939, World War II erupted, lasting until 1945. This global conflict involved the majority of the world's nations, dividing them into two major military alliances – the Allies and the Axis powers. The war caused extensive destruction, loss of life, and reshaped the geopolitical landscape. With so many lives lost, commemorating the sacrifices became essential.

1920

The Concept is Born

The idea for a memorial to honor the soldiers and civilians who lost their lives during World War II was first proposed in 1920, shortly after the end of the war. At that time, it was suggested that a memorial be built in Washington, D.C., the nation's capital, to serve as a lasting tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

1993

The idea is born

In 1993, a World War II veteran named Roger Durbin proposed the idea of building a national memorial to honor the American soldiers who fought and died in World War II. Durbin suggested that the memorial should be located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

1940

World War II begins

In 1939, World War II broke out with the invasion of Poland by Nazi Germany. As the war escalated, more countries such as Britain, France, and the Soviet Union became involved, bringing the conflict to a global scale. The war resulted in the loss of millions of lives and widespread destruction.

1939

The Outbreak of World War II

In 1939, World War II broke out, engulfing the world in one of the deadliest conflicts in history. As the war progressed, the United States became more involved and sent millions of its citizens to fight on foreign soil. The devastating impact of the war led to a growing desire among veterans and the public for a memorial to honor the sacrifices made during the conflict.

1945

End of World War II

After six years of devastating conflict, World War II finally came to an end in 1945. The defeat of Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan marked a turning point in global history. The war had lasting impacts on countries and individuals worldwide, shaping the post-war era and giving rise to a strong collective memory.

1987

The Push for a Memorial Begins

Nearly seven decades later, in 1987, a grassroots campaign to establish a World War II memorial gained momentum. With the support of veterans' organizations, community leaders, and concerned citizens, the movement sought to create a memorial that would commemorate the bravery and sacrifice of the millions who fought and served during the war.

1993

Formation of the World War II Memorial Advisory Board

In 1993, the World War II Memorial Advisory Board was established. It aimed to investigate the feasibility of constructing a national memorial honoring the American participation in World War II. This board emphasized the role of remembrance and sought to create a lasting tribute to those who served and sacrificed during the war.

2000

Congressional approval

After several years of planning and lobbying, the World War II memorial project received official approval from the United States Congress in 2000. The legislation authorized the American Battle Monuments Commission to establish the memorial and set aside a specific location for its construction.

1987

Establishment of the World War II Memorial Foundation

In 1987, the World War II Memorial Foundation was established to spearhead the efforts in creating a national memorial for World War II. The foundation worked to raise funds and generate support for the idea of a dedicated monument that would serve as a lasting testament to the heroism and sacrifices of those who fought in the war.

1995

Creation of the World War II Memorial Foundation

The World War II Memorial Foundation was formed in 1995 to lead fundraising efforts and raise public awareness about the importance of constructing a memorial. This organization sought to secure private donations for the memorial and gain support from politicians and the general public. Their efforts were crucial in making the memorial a reality.

1993

Congressional Approval and Design Selection

In 1993, Congress passed legislation authorizing the establishment of a National World War II Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The design selection process began, with numerous architects and artists submitting their proposals for consideration. After careful evaluation, the design by Friedrich St. Florian, an architect from Rhode Island, was chosen as the winner.

1987

The Push for a National World War II Memorial

In 1987, a group of World War II veterans gathered in Washington, D.C. to discuss the idea of creating a national memorial to honor the veterans of the war. The group, known as the WWII Memorial Foundation, worked tirelessly to gain support for the memorial and raise the necessary funds. Their efforts garnered the support of President Bill Clinton and other prominent individuals.

2001

Design selection

A design competition was held to determine the concept for the World War II memorial. The winning design, titled 'Freedom is Not Free,' was created by architect Friedrich St. Florian. The design featured a central plaza with a pool and fountains, surrounded by 56 granite pillars representing each U.S. state and territory at the time of the war.

1987

The idea for a World War II memorial

In 1987, the American Battle Monuments Commission authorized the construction of a national memorial to honor the men and women who served and sacrificed during World War II. The idea was to create a permanent place of remembrance that would ensure the contributions of those who fought in the war would never be forgotten.

1993

Federal authorization and site selection

In 1993, the United States Congress authorized the establishment of the World War II Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The selection process for the memorial site was also undertaken, with several potential locations considered before ultimately choosing an area between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument.

1993

Congressional Approval and Location Selection

In 1993, Congress passed the World War II Memorial Act, authorizing the establishment of a national memorial to be built on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The act also created the World War II Memorial Advisory Board, responsible for selecting the memorial's location and design. After an extensive search, the board chose a site between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument.

1993

American Battle Monuments Commission approves the memorial site

After several years of planning and consideration, the American Battle Monuments Commission officially approved the memorial site in 1993. The chosen location for the World War II Memorial was the National Mall in Washington, D.C., between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument.

2001

Construction begins

Construction on the World War II Memorial commenced in September 2001, following years of planning and fundraising. The memorial was designed to encompass a variety of elements including a central plaza, bronze sculptures, and granite pillars, all meant to symbolize the various theaters and aspects of the war.

2004

Groundbreaking ceremony

On November 11, 2000, Veterans Day, a groundbreaking ceremony was held at the construction site of the World War II memorial. Former President George W. Bush and many World War II veterans attended the event, marking the official start of the memorial's construction.

2001

Signing of the World War II Memorial Act

On May 28, 2001, President George W. Bush signed the World War II Memorial Act. This act authorized the establishment of a National World War II Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The legislation aimed to create a space for remembrance, education, and reflection on the sacrifices made by Americans during the war.

2001

Groundbreaking and Construction

On November 11, 2000, the groundbreaking ceremony for the World War II Memorial took place, marking the start of construction. The memorial is located between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, symbolically bridging the gap between the heroes of the Civil War and those of World War II. Due to various factors, including weather delays and funding challenges, the construction process took several years to complete.

2004

Dedication and Opening

On May 29, 2004, the World War II Memorial was officially dedicated and opened to the public. The dedication ceremony brought together veterans, their families, and dignitaries from around the world to pay tribute to the sacrifices made during the war. The memorial features a central plaza with 56 granite pillars representing each U.S. state and territory, as well as fountains, bronze bas-relief panels depicting significant events, and a Freedom Wall adorned with 4,048 gold stars to honor the 404,800 American lives lost.

2004

Dedication and opening

On May 29, 2004, the World War II Memorial was officially dedicated in a ceremony attended by thousands of veterans, dignitaries, and members of the public. The memorial quickly became a significant tourist attraction, providing visitors with a place for reflection and remembrance of the sacrifices made during World War II.

2004

Dedication and opening

After several years of construction, the World War II memorial was officially dedicated and opened to the public on May 29, 2004. The dedication ceremony was attended by thousands of World War II veterans and their families, as well as national and international dignitaries.

2001

Groundbreaking and Construction

In 2001, ground was broken for the World War II Memorial, marking the beginning of construction. The memorial was designed by architect Friedrich St. Florian and features a central plaza with 56 granite pillars, representing the 48 states that existed at the time of the war, as well as several territories. The pillars surround a large fountain and are joined by two ceremonial entrance arches.

2000

Design competition and selection

A design competition was launched in 2000 to find the most fitting design for the World War II Memorial. Out of 407 entries, the design by Friedrich St. Florian, titled "Freedom Is Not Free," was selected. The design incorporated classical elements and symbolism to capture the significance of the war.

2004

Dedication and Opening of the World War II Memorial

After years of planning and construction, the World War II Memorial was officially dedicated on May 29, 2004. The dedication ceremony marked the opening of the memorial to the public. The memorial features architectural elements representing different aspects of the war, paying tribute to the millions of Americans who served and commemorating their bravery and sacrifice.

2004

Dedication and Opening

On May 29, 2004, the World War II Memorial was officially dedicated in a ceremony attended by veterans, dignitaries, and thousands of spectators. The memorial serves as a solemn tribute to the over 400,000 Americans who lost their lives during World War II and the countless others who served and supported the war effort. It continues to be a place of remembrance and reflection for visitors from around the world.

2004

Dedication and opening

On May 29, 2004, the World War II Memorial was officially dedicated in a grand ceremony attended by veterans, dignitaries, and the public. The memorial serves as a tribute to the 16 million Americans who served in the armed forces during World War II, as well as the countless civilians who contributed to the war effort.