How Many Sailor Kissing Nurse Statues are There?
The iconic image of a sailor kissing a nurse in Times Square on V-J Day, August 14, 1945, has become an enduring symbol of the joy and relief that followed the end of World War II. The photograph, taken by Alfred Eisenstaedt, has been reproduced and parodied countless times, and has become an instantly recognizable representation of the end of the war. But how many statues are there of this iconic couple, and where can you find them?
The Original Statue
The first Sailor Kissing Nurse Statue was dedicated in 1995 in Times Square, New York City, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the original event. The statue, designed by artist Neil Larsen, depicts a sailor in a white uniform embracing a nurse in a nurse’s uniform, both of whom are standing in front of a stylized New York City skyline. The statue was placed at the corner of 7th Avenue and 44th Street, directly opposite the Times Square Information Center.
Other Statues Around the World
In addition to the original statue in Times Square, there are several other Sailor Kissing Nurse Statues located around the world. Here are some of the most notable ones:
| Location | Description |
|---|---|
| Singapore | A replica of the original statue is located at the Marina Bay area, near the Marina Bay Sands hotel. |
| Tokyo, Japan | A smaller statue is located in the Tokyo waterfront area, near the Tokyo Tower. |
| Seoul, South Korea | A life-sized statue is located in the Yeouido Park, near the Han River. |
| Manila, Philippines | A smaller statue is located in the Rizal Park, near the Philippine International Convention Center. |
| Hong Kong | A replica of the original statue is located at the Victoria Peak, overlooking the city skyline. |
| Taipei, Taiwan | A smaller statue is located in the Taipei 101 Observation Deck, on the 89th floor. |
Replicas and Parodies
In addition to these official statues, there are numerous replicas and parodies of the Sailor Kissing Nurse statue located around the world. These can range from small figurines to large sculptures, and can be found in museums, parks, and even private collections. Some notable examples include:
- The USS Arizona Memorial, Honolulu, Hawaii – A small replica of the statue is located near the memorial, commemorating the lives lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor.
- The National WWII Museum, New Orleans, Louisiana – A replica of the statue is located on the museum’s grounds, near the Louisiana Memorial.
- The National Navy Museum, Washington, D.C. – A replica of the statue is located in the museum’s Great Hall, near the Vietnam War exhibit.
Significance and Impact
The Sailor Kissing Nurse Statue has become an iconic symbol of the end of World War II, and has been interpreted in many different ways. For some, it represents the joy and relief of the war’s end, while for others it represents the sacrifice and loss suffered during the war. Regardless of interpretation, the statue has become a powerful symbol of the human experience during wartime.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are at least 8 official Sailor Kissing Nurse Statues located around the world, in addition to numerous replicas and parodies. From the original statue in Times Square to the replicas in Singapore, Tokyo, and other cities, this iconic couple has become a lasting symbol of the end of World War II. Whether you view it as a celebration of victory or a memorial to those who served, the Sailor Kissing Nurse Statue is an enduring reminder of the human experience during wartime.
Additional Resources
- Alfred Eisenstaedt’s Photograph: The original photograph of the sailor kissing the nurse in Times Square can be found on the Getty Images website.
- Sailor Kissing Nurse Statue Website: The official website for the Sailor Kissing Nurse Statue in Times Square provides information on the statue’s history, significance, and location.
- WWII Museum Resources: The National WWII Museum website provides a wealth of information on the war, including exhibits, artifacts, and personal stories.
