Today found us on our feet and moving about the Mall. On our way there though, we stopped by the White House and snapped another group shot. The weather was perfect, crowds were minimal, and we had a great day.
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Not quite the White House view we're used to on TV, but it will work.
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| "Silence is a War Crime" 24/7 protest since 1981 |
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| The reflecting pool is FINALLY back! |
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| Facade still under repair after the 2011 earthquake. |
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| Vietnam War Memorial, always a somber experience. |
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| Two nursing students view the Vietnam nurses memorial. |
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Tour of the mall was followed up by a powerful visit to the Holocaust Museum.
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It's surprisingly rare to see protests in DC. This roving rant is an exception.
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| Confidence and stability? Hmmm... |
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| Another hmmm...moment. Statues outside of the Washington Post building. Democrats = tree-hugging panda lovers. Republicans = DC establishment. |
The Granite MLK JR Memorial was much bigger than I expected. The Vietnam Nursing memorial showed the courage of the women who served in hazardous conditions. I could not figure out if the Nurse that was looking up was waiting for a Medevac or fearing incoming artillery. Did you notice that there were 19 Soldiers patrolling at the Korean War memorial. The soldiers were patrolling in a wedge formation.
ReplyDeleteThe 19 soldiers play a significant role in the memorial. The symbolism in each memorial and monument is incredible. I found some new information that I was unaware of at the time I viewed the memorial. This is a quote off of the US Army Core of Engineers Baltimore District site, " There are 19 statues sculpted by Frank Gaylord of Barre, Vt., and cast-fabricated by Tallix Foundries of Beacon, N.Y. They are approximately 7-foot 3-inch tall (heroic scale) and consist of 14 Army, 3 Marines, 1 Navy, 1 Air Force. They represent an ethnic cross section of America with 12 Caucasian, 3 African American, 2 Hispanic, 1 Oriental, 1 Indian (Native American)."
DeleteThe Korean War memorial was a lot more than I had expected. It wasn't until after we asked a passing by tour guide what some of it meant. It has 19 soldiers to reflect the 19th parallel that the war was on. It was meant to make the viewer feel as though they are one with the soldiers and on the front lines and not just an onlooker.
DeleteOne small correction: the memorial has 19 soldiers, who are reflected on the surrounding wall. The statues and reflections together represent the 38th parallel, which roughly separates North and South Korea.
DeleteThat's interesting, I would have never have thought to count the number of soldiers presented in the memorial. I appreciate how each and every one of these memorials has such background and significance behind their creation. I also did not know that there was a mixture of cultures and military branches, but I like the fact that this was done as it shows that our military is mixed. I think it shows America's ability to work together. Next time I go I will have to pay attention to this to see if I can spot which ones are which.
DeleteWe were able to see so much today! My favorite was the World War II memorial. Most of the memorials were so much bigger and more beautiful than I imagined. I just wish the Washington monument was finished with repairs!
ReplyDeleteI wish the Washington Monument was finished with repairs too! But on a positive note at least we were able to see the monument with the government now open!
DeleteThe wonderful thing about the incomplete repairs was that it was transformed into a pillar of light at night. It made for a wonderful photo in the reflecting pool.
DeleteI noticed that as well! The repairs made it beautiful at night.
DeleteI was thinking the same thing. I wonder how the mall would look without all of the construction around the washington monument. It kind of made me think about how the instability of our government is represented in the scaffolding of the monument.
Delete-Matt W
I recently discovered that the Washington Monument was damaged during the earthquake. Also, many of the D.C. residents like the way it looks with the scaffolding around it at night. D.C. residents say that it is a great symboolization of our government meaning great potential but yet broken.
DeleteI like that Zedrick, I never really thought about it that way. I kinda thought it looked neat myself with the scaffolding, but I thought maybe I was the only one that thought that.
DeleteGood point Zedric and Matt
DeleteToday was packed with new experiences and our trip around the Mall! I saw a lot of monuments that blew me away with their size and outstanding structure but I have to say the Vietnam War Memorial was my favorite throughout the day! Even though the design of the monument was more on the simple side the emotion that leapt from the visiting crowd was felt even though no words were spoken!
ReplyDeleteCourtney,
DeleteI agree with you. The people visiting the Vietnam monument is what give it the biggest impact. When you look at the wall you can see all of the names, but when you see someone crying when they find a name, it is truly powerful.
-Matt W
Matt and Courtney,
DeleteI also believe that the visitors' reactions at the Wall intensifies the experience. I actually flipped through the directory to see if I found anyone named "Nigro" and I lost my breath when I read "Anthony Joseph Nigro" in the book. I found his name on the Wall. I did not know how to feel since I did not know this individual personally, but my dad always says that all of the Nigro's in the United States are related somehow. I was honored to know that one of my distant relatives had laid down his life for the country. I do not know if I would have looked though the directory if I had not been assigned to the Vietnam War Memorial for our group project. I may research more about this man to find out his relation so that it will be even more meaningful to me if I visit the Wall later in life.
I wish I would have seen where the directory was, it would have been nice to look up my grandparents last names and seen if I recognized any names as well. I know that many of my distant relatives have served in the military but I do not recall which wars they have fought in. I also agree with all three of you as the wall was very simple and couldn't even be seen if looked at from behind. This simplicity and it's powerful meaning alongside the visitor's reactions is what made the monument so captivating. I'm glad I was able to visit it.
DeleteThe World War II Memorial had one of the greatest impacts on me. My grandfather was a WWII veteran and died of Alzheimer's when I was very young. I have only heard of his stories through others. Being at the memorial made me think of him and all of the others that served. It is crazy to think that a war can effect so many nations. Being at the memorial made me thankful for those who served and continue to serve and protect our freedom.
ReplyDeleteThe wall of stars was by far my favorite part of the memorial. It seemed to be the only section completely dedicated to the people of the war. over 400,000 Americans represented on that wall. That number is staggering.
DeleteI loved the WWII monument as well. This and the Korea Memorial were the two places that gave me the chance to sit and look at the monuments while I reflected on what they meant. I truly felt their beauty and power. I agree with Eddie that the wall of stars was incredibly powerful.
DeleteI also agree, the stars were more affective than just stating a mere number. To see something represented visually has a bigger impact on the viewer.
DeleteGoing into the day I was really anticipating visiting the WWII memorial. Of all of the major war monuments this was the only one I expected to have any effect on me. Unfortunately the reality was much less than the expectation. It was beautiful for sure, but it held no emotion. Quite unexpectedly the Vietnam wall knocked me on my ass. The brilliance was in its simplicity. The marquis of the monument was not some grand design or physical beauty, it didn't awe you with size or try to intimidate as other monuments do. Instead, the important thing to bear witness to are the names, and the scope of sacrifice made. The artistry of the monument wasn't in its construction, but in the atmosphere it created. More than any other spot I saw in this city, this 493 feet of real estate commanded reverence.
ReplyDeleteSeeing that veteran with his grandson at the memorial made tears and a lump in my throat. It took everything I had not to cry. We forget that many of the visitors at the wall are there because they knew or fought beside those that died. Hearing his voice crack and seeing him tear up was powerful. I know we underestimate the power of saying thank you, but I know he must have appreciated when you went up to him and thanked him for his service.
DeleteI must say I agree with you again Eddie. Most of the monuments in the city either try to be the biggest or the most intriguing. This one was very simple and let you focus on the idea of why it was here, and not just the way that it looked. Seeing people remember their friends and family members was very hard.
DeleteEddie, I have to agree. My expectations for the Word War II memorial was greater than the reality. I spent most of my time as well at the Vietnam memorial. My grandfather fought in the war, but was a survivor in it, so it definitely impacted me. I think the World War II memorial was definitely structured well as far as architecture, but it didn't pull at me emotionally like I was expecting. The Korean War memorial also had a great effect on me emotionally. It was moving to see so many veterans out and about by this memorial at the time I was there. I got to hear several of them speak temporarily and it was nice to see so many people go up them and thank them for their service. It was a life changing experience!
DeleteToday was a BEAUTIFUL day. I wouldn't say that I necessarily had a favorite spot today since I loved them all, but there was a LOT to see. The National Mall was gorgeous today with the weather. Our group chose to spend more time outside enjoying it. The WWII memorial was very calming today. We sat down for a bit to reflect and take it all in. Vietnam memorial today tugged at the emotions. There were several veterans that we there that were sharing stories with their family or remembering their friends that were in the war with them. It was very touching to see them visit the memorial and reflect on their own past experiences. I was disappointed that the Washington Monument was still under construction. I looked forward to seeing it again since it was under construction last time. Hopefully by next time I travel there, I will be able to see it.
ReplyDeleteI thought the fountain was a great idea for the WWII memorial. It gives a sense of calmness to think about the people that served WWII, especially on a beautiful day.
DeleteIt is also representative of the War in the Pacific. Without researching I am guessing that the fountain was the Naval warfare, the surrounding walkways the land campaign, and the open skies above representative of the emergence of air warfare in WWII
DeleteIt seems ironic that the elephant and donkey statues are part of the _Washington Post_ building. Those on the political right sometimes criticize the Post as being "too liberal," but these statues certainly don't suggest that.
ReplyDeleteThis was an absolute beautiful day and I enjoyed it. First going to the White House and seeing something that I have only seen in pictures was just breathtaking. I did find it very ironic though that while the President is completely secured, has a wonderful place to live, and food on his table that there are homless people sleeping in eyes view of the White House. After viewing the the Vietnam Memorial I saw a veteran pointing out his platoon that perished in the war to his grandson all while tearing up. This just had me beside myself and super honored to be standing right next to him.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite part about the white house is it was the first time (that i know of) that a sniper was looking right at me through his scope. I waved, seemed like the right thing to do.
DeleteYou love tempting fate, don't you, Eddie?
DeleteIt's worked out so far.
DeleteI had the same thought Maddie! With all the immaculate buildings around, and what richness lies in the White House, it kind of goes against common sense that not even 100 feet away from the most pretigious building in our country lies people who are starving and only have a blanket to their name. Sad.
DeleteThis day was perfect. It was really nice to spend most of the time walking to where we wanted to go rather than ride the metro. I felt like it gave us a better feel for what the city has to offer. I really enjoyed seeing the while house. I always catch my self thinking about all of the significant men and women who have been in that house throughout history. After seeing the white house we walked to the national mall. This was my first time here since I was little. On this day, it was really nice to see all of the monuments. I was especially intrigued by the lincoln memorial and how large it was. The entire day was overwhelming, but extremely intriguing.
ReplyDelete-Matt Werkowitch
As I walked through the Vietnam Memorial a lady was etching a name for her father that couldn't make it to D.C. Even though I didn't know the lady the feeling became so real to me. I like how simple and powerful the wall was to remember those who sacrificed so much for us.
ReplyDeleteI saw that woman too, Sarah. It also gave me sense of how many different people come to honor the fallen. It was touching to see the different ways they did this, and also the different reactions they had.
Delete-Maggie C.
When I was visiting the Vietnam War Memorial, I decided to flip through the index of names to see if I could find anyone with my last name, Nigro. I found "Anthony Joseph Nigro" and located his name on the wall. I sent a picture of his name to my dad. I am going to investigate him further because my parents tell me that all of the Nigro's in the United States are related somehow. It was cool being able to identify with someone on the wall.
ReplyDeleteThe Holocaust Museum was moving. I learned from the exhibit about the child, Daniel, who shared his story through a journal. It was interesting observing his environment before the Nazi takeover and after the Nazi takeover. The exhibit featured many of his journal entries and the household and environment within the exhibit reflected his statements in the journal. It was educational. Unfortunately, I was not able to tour the entire museum because I did not realize to begin the tour at the elevators. I had already seen the Holocaust Museum, however, so I was aware of most of the things I would see and experience.
Angie, when I was at the Vietnam War Memorial, I happened to be at the right place at the right time because I saw the name "Alfredo Davila" on the wall. I literally landed my eyes on it and was in shock to see my last name on the wall. I have no idea if I was related or not, but I am going to definitely do some investigating to find out. I thought it was interesting that I wasn't the only one that sent a picture to family members.
DeleteSeeing the Holocaust museum was the best (and saddest) part of my day for sure. I enjoyed seeing Lincoln and the White House but the Holocaust Mueseum is what I have been wanting to see for several years now. I am and always have always been intrigued with why such terrible events took place. Even though I have learned a lot through classes and read many Holocaust stories, I felt like I couldn't learn enough throughout the tour. Aryan women would receive awards on how "aryan" their children looked. WHAT! Looking at the spoons and such that were taken away from the Jews before they were murdered was so heartbreaking. These things were treasured items that people thought they'd actually get to keep. I could go on and on about how my heart broke a thousand times while going through the tour... but the message in the main lobby made me want to enforce it even more after seeing the tour... "Never again starts with you." This reminds me of the movie Freedom Writers and how these kids were so passionate to learn about the Holocaust and how meeting Miep Gies was such a highlight. Never again really does start with us. What a powerful message!!
ReplyDeleteI too thought of the movie the Freedom Writers and believe that we can make a difference in the world by making changes to the way we treat people. The holocaust was a little bit different than I had originally expected as I thought there would be more emphasis on each individual's stories that were given to us. I was moved when I seen the items taken away from these people as they were the last treasures that belonged to them. I think my emotions really set in once I saw the pile of shoes along with the videos moving along the corpses. It was the moment when it just "clicked" that this WAS REAL.
DeleteMy favorite thing about this day was seeing the Holocaust museum. Words can't truly even begin to express the emotion that overwhelmed me. I learned so much about the history and the events that occurred. I knew many Jews died during this time, but I had no idea that 6 million people died. I humble enough to admit that I begin to cry when I saw the pile of shoes as well as the quote on the second floor. It was life changing to experience seeing this. There was a section in the musuem that you were able to listen to survivors of the Holocaust and you could hear the horror in their voices. It was definitely life changing.
ReplyDeleteAlong with everyone else, I wish that the Washing monument was opened. However, it was great just seeing it and embracing history. The Lincoln Memorial looked sophisticated and I enjoyed reading through the Gettysburg Address as well the Second Inaugural Address. It was nice to nearly experience a glimpse of history. It was definitely life changing. I loved every minute of this day as well as every other day.
I also had no idea the extent of the deaths during the Holocaust. I knew many had died, but I never realized that it was thousands a day. It was an eye opening experience to what has happened in the past.
Delete-Alex
I think the only thing that had prepared me for the sheer number of deaths was that throughout my high school years I had two teachers who were enthusiastic about making sure this information was well known and have actually had the opportunity to meet holocaust survivors. I was also able to read Anne Frank diary which gave a good perspective about what had happened. Even though I was prepared in my mind for what I was about to witness, everything all changed once I saw the items in the museum with my own eyes. I agree that the room with the shoes and the room with the survivors telling their stories were some of the most challenging points of this journey. After hearing what other students had to say about it I wish I would have stuck around to see Daniel's story as it seems like it was worth seeing. Seeing all of this makes me truly thankful for what I have... the freedoms especially and I will think twice about complaining about any of my conditions.
DeleteEvery monument was pretty awesome. It was really cool to get the chance to stand in the exact spot that MLK gave his "I Have a Dream Speech." It was really cool to stand where such an important speech was given to thousands of people. I also really like the Nurses Memorial at the Vietnam Wall. I felt like it did a good job of capturing the nurses' experiences. The statue coupled with the thousands of names on the wall almost brought me to tears.
ReplyDelete-Maggie C.
I really enjoyed the Lincoln Memorial. Standing at the top of the stairs looking out toward the Washington Monument it seemed unreal. I was staring at a scene that I had only seen in pictures or on TV. It was a moment that made me appreciate where I was.
ReplyDelete-Alex
I'd have to say that I liked everything about this day as I got to see a lot of monuments. The Vietnam War monument had such meaning behind it's subtle design. The WWII memorial was much larger and nicer than expected to be. It was beautiful in its stance and captured the war efforts by showing everyone involved in it. My favorite part, other than its majestic build in whole, was the wall dedicated to the fallen soldiers in the manner of representing 100 soldiers per golden star on a wall. I think the label of the wall, the price of freedom served its purpose in communicating how may fallen soldiers there were. The Lincoln memorial was much bigger than I had thought and I was taken away at its size and its beauty.
ReplyDelete