USMC War Memorial

If the title of this post gave you an immediate image, and it's the correct one, then you knew your war memorials much better than I.

The title should have conjured the image of several bronze figures, dressed in war fatigues, leaning into one another as they hoist the Stars and Stripes on a heavy, metal pole.  It is commonly referred to as Iwo Jima.  The designer modeled the statue after a pulitzer-prize winning photograph taken during World War II.  The tireless work depicted in this scene, the unity of brotherhood, and the indomitable American spirit all shine through in this iconic moment.  The statue dedicated with it is meant to honor all of the men and women who have served in the US Marine Corps before, during, and since this most famous of flag-raisings took place.

Washington D.C. educational tours do not all have a singular purpose.  Different age groups might focus on different areas of government and history.  Different schools may focus on various themes.  But the monuments and memorials throughout Washington D.C. are perfect for almost any tour.  They provide the atmosphere for discussion and reflection.  They inspire questions and a thirst for further discovery.  War memorials in particular are very relevant these days and even more likely to open the door to this kind of interactive experience.

The USMC, or Iwo Jima, War Memorial is located near Arlington Cemetery.  It is a beautiful way to honor our military and center our focus on those who serve it today.