There is no shortage of ways to honor those who have fought to keep out nation safe. Yes, there are the national monuments and memorials in Washington, D.C., there are also plenty in Northern Virginia as well.
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE UNITED STATES ARMY
The newest military museum is open at Fort Belvoir. The museum portrays Army history and traditions from soldiers’ perspectives through interactive exhibits, and a multisensory 300-degree theater.
The Arlington National Cemetery is a must-visit site for both out-of-towners and locals. This national landmark honors 14,000 veterans who have given their lives to serve and protect the United States. Truly a stunning tribute, the cemetery also includes the Tomb of the Unknowns, which is guarded 24 hours a day.
Located inside the Arlington National Cemetery, the Tomb of the Unknowns is in memory of soldiers and other servicemen who died without identification. It’s honorably guarded all day, every day—even amidst powerful storms and national security threats.
At the entrance to Arlington National Cemetery, this memorial honors women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The memorial was dedicated in 1997 with a candlelight march across the Arlington Memorial Bridge and the first all-female flyover of military aircraft.
Known as the US Marine Corps War Memorial, this 78-foot statue is most commonly referred to as the Iwo Jima Memorial because its design was inspired by a Pulitzer Prize-winning WWII photo. The memorial features a 60-foot tall bronze flagpole being raised by six men and includes an American flag that always flies at full mast.
UNITED STATES AIR FORCE MEMORIAL
Unveiled in 2006, this design by architect James Ingo Freed takes inspiration from Air Force Thunderbirds in a “bomb burst” maneuver. The spires, which range in height from 201 feet to 270 feet, are made of stainless steel.
Though it’s only been open since 2006, the National Marine Corps Museum has quickly become a top place for visitors. The museum seeks to educate and engage people of all ages by developing detailed exhibits about Marine Corps history.
Conveniently located right off I-66, the Manassas Battlefield Park isn’t just one of NoVA’s most historic sites. As the home of an early Civil War battle, the park is a key part of our national history. Whether you’re looking to stop by for an hour or you plan to spend the whole day on site, the Manassas Battlefield Park is full of exhibits, weapons, statues, videos, and everything else a Civil War enthusiast would ever want.
