About - Global War On Terrorism Memorial Foundation

Our Story

The Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) Memorial Foundation was formed in 2015 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation by a small group of like-minded veterans, military spouses, and supportive Americans to honor the service and sacrifice of all individuals – both uniformed and non-uniformed – who have contributed to global counterterrorism efforts since September 11th, 2001. A distinguished Board of Directors comprised of individuals from military and non-military backgrounds leads the Foundation, with former President George W. Bush serving as the Foundation’s Honorary Chairman. Michael “Rod” Rodríguez, a former U.S. Army Green Beret who deployed ten times, is the Foundation’s President and CEO.

“It’s about telling the American people about those that are willing to give the ultimate sacrifice.”

Our Vision and Mission

In 2017, Congress designated the Foundation as the entity authorized to plan, fund, and build a Memorial. Our vision for the Memorial is for it to be an inclusive, reverent, and apolitical place of honor for all who have served and sacrificed in the ongoing Global War on Terrorism, as well as the countless civilians, family members, and others who have supported them. The Memorial will:

Honor: Salute all who served in this conflict: service members, civilians, and their families.

Heal: Provide a focal point for healing and reflection on a complex, multigenerational conflict.

Empower: Engage and educate civilian and military communities to build mutual understanding.

Unite: Foster and sustain the sense of patriotism that brought all Americans together in the wake of 9/11, and catalyze support for those continuing to serve.

Our Progress

In 2022 and 2023, the Foundation made huge strides, moving into the design phase by receiving site authorization. Having focused on steps 9-12 since August 2017, the GWOTMF has now advanced to steps 13-19 in the National Capital Planning Commission’s Memorial 24-step construction process. The Foundation also announced the creation of the Design Advisory Council, a body composed of Gold Star families, veterans, and other GWOT stakeholders to educate and advise towards the ultimate Memorial design. In addition to the work surrounding the design efforts, the GWOTMF team continues to be active in the veteran and community; spreading missional awareness, providing thought leadership, and lending support to like-minded organizations.

Our Team

The Foundation was formed in 2015 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation by a small group of like-minded veterans, military spouses, and supportive Americans to honor the service and sacrifice of all who served in the Global War on Terrorism.

OUR TEAM