Where is the Marine Corps Memorial Located?
The Marine Corps Memorial, also known as the Iwo Jima Memorial, is a iconic landmark and tribute to the United States Marine Corps. It is located in Arlington, Virginia, just outside of Washington, D.C. The memorial stands at the entrance to the Arlington National Cemetery and is a must-see for anyone interested in American military history.
Physical Location
The Marine Corps Memorial is situated at:
10th Street and Jefferson Davis Highway
Arlington, VA 22211
History
The memorial was designed by architect Frederick Francis Victorale and sculptor Felix de Weldon. It was constructed in 1954 to commemorate the 213th anniversary of the founding of the Marine Corps. The memorial is based on the iconic photograph taken during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II, which shows five Marine Corps soldiers raising the American flag on Mount Suribachi.
Key Features
The memorial is characterized by a large marble sculpture of the five Marine Corps soldiers, which is based on the original photograph. The sculpture is set in a granite base, with a large American flag proudly displayed above. The memorial also features a marble plaza and a walkway surrounded by a granite curb, with inscriptions that tell the story of the Battle of Iwo Jima and the Marine Corps’ history.
Tidbits and Fun Facts
Here are some interesting tidbits and fun facts about the Marine Corps Memorial:
- The memorial was constructed using over 400 cubic yards of white Carrara marble.
- The statue of the five Marine Corps soldiers is over 32 feet tall and weighs over 140 tons.
- The American flag on the memorial is over 80 feet tall and has been raised and lowered thousands of times since its construction.
- The memorial has become a popular spot for photographs and has been featured on numerous postcards and coins.
- The inscription on the memorial reads: "Uncommon Valor was a Common Virtue".
Interesting Statistics
Here are some interesting statistics about the Marine Corps Memorial:
- Over 2 million visitors visit the memorial each year.
- The memorial has been designated as a National Historic Landmark since 1987.
- The memorial is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Washington, D.C.
How to Get There
Getting to the Marine Corps Memorial is relatively easy:
- By Car: The memorial is located off the exit of I-95 in Arlington, Virginia.
- By Public Transportation: The memorial is accessible via the Metrorail, with the closest stop being the Arlington Cemetery stop on the Blue Line.
Other Nearby Attractions
Here are some other nearby attractions that are worth visiting:
- Arlington National Cemetery: Located just across the street from the memorial, the cemetery is the final resting place for many American servicemen and women.
- United States Air Force Memorial: Located just a short walk from the Marine Corps Memorial, the memorial is dedicated to the sacrifices and achievements of the United States Air Force.
- Iwo Jima Exhibit at the National Museum of the Marine Corps: Located in Quantico, Virginia, the exhibit features interactive displays and artifacts from the Battle of Iwo Jima.
Conclusion
The Marine Corps Memorial is an iconic landmark and tribute to the United States Marine Corps. Its location in Arlington, Virginia, makes it a must-see for anyone interested in American military history. Whether you are a history buff, a fan of the Marine Corps, or simply looking for a unique and educational experience, the Marine Corps Memorial is a must-visit attraction.
