Korean War Veterans Memorial

Built in 1995, the Korean memorial pays tribute to the soldiers who fought in the Korean War (1950-1953). The main memorial is in the form of a triangle intersecting a circle. More than 2500 images of troops moving by sea, land and air are sandblasted onto the surface of the wall, while a squadron of 19 stainless steel figures, including members from each branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, are situated in the center of the memorial space.

When the 1,000-pound statues are reflected on the granite wall, there appear 38 soldiers, which represents the 38th parallel, the dividing line of North and South Korea during the conflict.

Located between the Lincoln and WWII memorials on the National Mall. NOW recommends viewing this memorial on the same trip to the World War II Memorial.

The Wall lists all 22 members of the United Nations that contributed to the war efforts, as well as a granite wall that states “Freedom Is Not Free.” This sentiment reflects the struggle and sacrifice of American soldiers in securing our freedoms when fighting overseas.

No visit is complete without a visit to the Pool of Remembrance, which has inscriptions that list the number of soldiers killed, wounded, missing in action and held as prisoners during the Korean War. The shallow pool, which is 30 feet in diameter, is surrounded by trees positioned so that the sun beautifully reflects off of the water.

Jefferson Memorial

The Jefferson Memorial was built to honor the 3rd President of the United States and Founding Father, Thomas Jefferson. He was a DemocraticRepublican who thought the national government should have a limited role in citizens’ lives. During his two terms in office (1801-1809), the U.S. purchased the Louisiana Territory and Lewis and Clark explored the vast new acquisition.

Although Jefferson promoted individual liberty, he was also a slave owner. After leaving office, he retired to his Virginia plantation, Monticello, and helped found the University of Virginia.

Construction commenced in 1938 amid significant opposition–many Washingtonians opposed the site because it did not align with L'Enfant's original plan for the city; and many well-established elm and cherry trees, including rare stock donated by Japan in 1912, were targeted for removal under the memorial's original plan. Some opposition included protestors chaining themselves to cherry trees.

The protests ultimately helped limit the projected footprint of the new memorial, so that it would peacefully co-exist with the spring-blooming cherry orchard flanking and abutting it.

Located at the south end of the tidal basin. Open 24 hours a day. Metro Stations: Foggy Bottom, Smithsonian. NOW recommends visiting the two memorials on the opposite page during the same trip to the Jefferson Memorial, walking around the Tidal Basin.