A First Look at The Global War on Terrorism Memorial

The Foundation overseeing the design of the future Global War on Terrorism Memorial on the National Mall in Washington

unveiled the first renderings of the site recently. Crafted in partnership with the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation

the memorial's design is the culmination of eight years of input from 20,000 Americans

including veterans from every branch of service and every conflict since World War II, according to the Foundation

Design animations show that visitors will first encounter steel and stone relics

recovered from the September 11th attacks at each of the site's three entrances

In a primary section called The Embrace, a classically inspired amphitheater rises over a path

and features an arch made of reclaimed steel from the era's combat operations

The arch, which will also be adorned with vegetation, is designed to filter light

and will be oriented to align with Section 60 in Arlington National Cemetery

the resting place of roughly 1,000 service members killed in the post-September 11th wars

Below the arch, a predominantly marble path of honor includes embedded boot prints that, quote

represent the weight of war and the varied experiences of those who served and their families, the Foundation says

Extending from the footprint paths are shallow reflecting pools in which visitors can dip their feet

before stepping back onto the stone to leave footprints of their own

The design of the memorial was revealed in a live event that featured veterans and key leaders from the era

Thank you for joining us this historic moment as we reveal for the first time the official design concept for the Global War on Terrorism Memorial It is now my honor to introduce a special message from our Honorary

Chairman, President George W. Bush. The Global War on Terrorism Memorial will stand as a lasting

tribute to the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice after 9-11 to make America safer and

stronger. This sacred space on our National Mall will also honor all the men and women who served

in the War on Terror, as well as the families who stood beside them. Laura and I are grateful to the

Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation for their commitment to this important mission

Building this memorial is an act of remembrance and unity. Visiting this memorial will be an act

of gratitude and respect. We must always honor those who answered the call and served

care for those who bear the wounds of war, and uphold the freedoms they defended

The Global War on Terrorism Memorial helps us fulfill a solemn duty

May God bless you, and may God continue to bless the United States of America

This design was shaped by history and held sacred from the beginning

forged by sacrifice. Informed by the voices of warriors and their families

every detail, every space, carries the weight of service and the cost of freedom

It was created with deep reverence for all who answered the call

for their families, and for those who never came home. It is a place to honor, to heal, to empower, and to unite