Today, The Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) Memorial Foundation celebrated a milestone in the effort to establish a GWOT Memorial on the National Mall. The Global War on Terrorism Memorial Location Act, introduced by GWOT veteran Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH), would establish a location for the national GWOT Memorial within the “Reserve” area of the National Mall alongside memorials to veterans of World War II, the Vietnam War, and the Korean War.
“With the national GWOT Memorial, we have the opportunity to reflect, remember, and honor the most diverse fighting force ever to serve our nation,” said GWOT Memorial Foundation President & CEO Marina Jackman. “By locating the GWOT Memorial alongside those honoring veterans of earlier conflicts, we’re showing the men and women who’ve served in our nation’s longest ongoing conflict that their sacrifice is equally valued. This Memorial will provide a permanent place of reflection, empowerment, and healing in the heart of our nation’s capital, and it will serve as a symbol of unity during this time of political division. We are so grateful to Senators Ernst and Hassan for their commitment to all who’ve served in the Global War on Terrorism.”
“As someone who had my boots in the sand in Iraq and Kuwait, I know firsthand the sacrifices the millions of brave men and women of our armed forces made in defense of our nation and our freedom,” said Senator Ernst. “Our nation should forever remember the sacrifices of the Americans who answered the call to wear the uniform—along with their families and loved ones—after our country came under attack. This Global War on Terrorism memorial on our National Mall would be a longstanding testament and reminder of their selflessness for generations to come.”
“The Global War on Terrorism Memorial will pay tribute to all of the service members who gave their lives so that Americans can stay safe, secure, and free,” said Senator Hassan. “While we can never repay the sacrifice of these brave individuals and their families, the memorial will help all Americans remember those who have given their lives in this ongoing conflict. I am proud to be a part of this important effort to ensure that the Global War on Terrorism Memorial can take its rightful place on the National Mall.”
The Global War on Terrorism Memorial Location Act outlines three potential locations for the GWOT Memorial within the Reserve area on the National Mall, including Constitution Gardens, West Potomac Park, and the JFK Hockey Fields.
A map of those proposed locations is available here:
Background:
In 2017, the President signed into law legislation authorizing the GWOT Memorial Foundation to establish, with private funds, a National Global War on Terrorism Memorial on federal land in the District of Columbia in order to commemorate and honor the men and women who have served in support of the Global War on Terrorism. The Global War on Terrorism Memorial Location Act represents the next step in an extensive legislative process required for a national monument.
To learn more about the GWOT Memorial Foundation or to donate, visit gwotmf.org. Follow the Foundation on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. To reach out to your elected Representatives & ask them to support the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Location Act, please visit https://www.gwotmemorialfoundation.org/get-involved/.
