When I first heard what design had been selected for this memorial, I thought it grossly inartistic and unworthy of what was to be memorialized. When I saw it in person , I realized how wrong I was. This is utterly compelling and a must stop for DC visitors.

The monument itself (as well as the statues surrounding it) is quite sober,........just that the immeeeeeeeense list of "combat deaths" gives the scale of these tragedies! We were there on “Memorial Day” and the devotion and signs of respect by a whole people united towards their victims gave us the shivers! What (one more!) Beautiful unanimity in the star-spangled banner shows us this people.....all United! (that commands respect!) Please note that you really have to explore this part of the mall (counting the morning) to discover all these beautiful country monuments, each more moving than the other! God bless America!

Designed as a slash / gash that heals from the middle, so the names are in order from the centre to the right, and then from the left to the centre, so the first people killed in action or next to the last. We went to see the memorial twice, during the day and at night. Seemed

A very sombre memorial. The place really brings home the sacrifice that the USA made in fighting this war. Very clean. Visiting in December meant that we had the place to ourselves. Felt very safe. Is very well maintained.