When was the Air Force Memorial Built?
The Air Force Memorial, a stunning tribute to the brave men and women of the United States Air Force, was built in Washington D.C. The memorial stands as a symbol of respect and gratitude to those who have served and are currently serving in the US Air Force.
Early Planning and Design
The idea of building an Air Force Memorial dates back to 1998, when then-Secretary of the Air Force, F. Whitten Peters, and the Air Force’s chief historian, Dr. Brian D. Hawkins, initiated the planning process. The memorial was intended to honor the legacy and sacrifices of the US Air Force, which was celebrating its 50th anniversary at the time. A design competition was held, and the winning entry was submitted by architect Romaldo Giurgola.
Construction and Dedication
Groundbreaking for the memorial took place on June 15, 2006, and it took approximately two years to complete. The construction cost was approximately $36 million, which was primarily funded by private donations and donations from the Air Force.
The Memorial
The Air Force Memorial, designed by architect Romaldo Giurgola, stands 181 feet tall and is located in the form of a giant chevron, symbolizing the "sharp edge" of the Air Force. The memorial is 430 feet long and 140 feet wide, covering an area of approximately 20,000 square feet.
Key Features
Some of the key features of the Air Force Memorial include:
• 43 Angels of the Air Forces: The memorial features three 27-foot-tall glass and steel pillars, which represent the three Pillars of the Air Force: the Airmen, the Aircraft, and the Missions. These pillars are topped with angels in flight, symbolizing the Air Force’s spirit of freedom and protection.
• Inscription Walls: The memorial features three inscription walls, etched with quotes from Airmen who made the ultimate sacrifice during combat operations. The walls are inscribed with more than 4,000 quotes, which are accompanied by the names of those who gave their lives in service.
• Bollards: The memorial is surrounded by 42 bronze bollards, each representing a combat airman who made the ultimate sacrifice. These bollards are designed to resemble the wings of the Air Force’s emblem.
Dedication Ceremony
The Air Force Memorial was dedicated on October 14, 2006, in a ceremony attended by approximately 10,000 guests, including former Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld and Air Force Chief of Staff General Michael G. Ryan.
Table: Key Features of the Air Force Memorial
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Pillars | Three 27-foot-tall glass and steel pillars, representing the Airmen, Aircraft, and Missions |
| Inscription Walls | Three walls with quotes from Airmen who made the ultimate sacrifice |
| Bollards | 42 bronze bollards, representing combat airmen who made the ultimate sacrifice |
Conclusion
The Air Force Memorial is a fitting tribute to the brave men and women of the US Air Force, who have made significant contributions to our country’s defense and national security. The memorial stands as a symbol of respect and gratitude to those who have served and continue to serve in the Air Force. Whether you’re a veteran, a service member, or a visitor, the Air Force Memorial is a must-see destination in Washington D.C.
