5 Iconic WWII Memorials Honoring the Brave Around the World

World War II was one of the most significant events in history, impacting countries and people all over the globe. Many memorials have been built to honor the courage and sacrifice of those who fought and suffered during this turbulent time. Here are five iconic WWII memorials located around the world.

World War II Memorial – 900 Ohio Drive SW Washington, DC 20024

The World War II Memorial in Washington, DC, is located near the Korean War Memorial. This memorial pays tribute to the 16 million members of the armed forces who fought from 1939 to 1945. It features bronze sculptures and stone architecture that work together to create a powerful visual experience. You can visit this memorial at any time of the day, any day of the week, because it is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays. It stands as a constant reminder of the sacrifices made to combat oppression.

Monument to the Women of World War II

The Monument to the Women of World War II is a war memorial in Britain, found on Whitehall in London. It was sculpted by John W. Mills and was unveiled by Queen Elizabeth II and dedicated by Baroness Boothroyd in July 2005. The memorial stands at 22 feet tall, making it a striking presence. The lettering on the side of the monument mimics the typeface used on wartime ration books. The sculpture features 17 different items of clothing, symbolizing the many roles and jobs that women took on during the war. This monument recognizes the vital contributions and hard work of women during this challenging period.

Marine Corps War Memorial

Another significant memorial from World War II is the Marine Corps War Memorial, also known as The Iwo Jima Monument. It is located at the entrance to Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington Ridge Park, Arlington, Virginia. This memorial was built to honor the United States Marine Corps who have died in defense of the United States since 1775. The statue showcases six servicemen raising the second, larger U.S. flag on Mount Suribachi on February 23, 1945, during the Battle of Iwo Jima. This moment was originally captured in a photograph, an image that has become iconic. The memorial stands as a tribute to the bravery and commitment of the Marines.

Memorial of the Deportation

The Memorial of the Deportation, located in Paris, France, is dedicated to those who were deported from Vichy France to concentration camps during World War II. Situated behind Notre Dame on Île de la Cité, it was designed by the French modernist architect Georges-Henri Pingusson and was inaugurated by Charles de Gaulle in 1962. The memorial is shaped like the prow of a ship, with two staircases and a lowered square leading to a hexagonal rotunda. The rotunda includes two chapels, and the walls are inscribed with literary excerpts. This somber memorial serves as a place for reflection and remembrance of the many lives affected by the deportations.

To Donbass Liberators

To Donbass Liberators is a memorial located in Lenin Comsomol Park, Donetsk, honoring the military units and formations that liberated the Donbass region during World War II. The monument is shaped like a triangle, with three inclined walls coming out of the ground, symbolizing the sharp edges of Donetsk’s mining waste heaps, known as terricones. At the base of the monument, there is an “eternal flame” that burns continuously. On the platform, there is a sculpture of a miner and soldiers, who hold a sword pointing downward in their right hands. Behind them is the shape of a five-pointed star. During Memorial Day events, veterans march through downtown Donetsk to this monument, paying their respects to those who fought for the liberation of the area.