Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Overview

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a black granite wall inscribed with the names of 58,318 American service members who died or remain missing from the Vietnam War. Its reflective surface creates a powerful contemplative experience.

Highlights

• The Wall: Two 246-foot-9-inch walls of polished Bangalore gneiss, sinking to a depth of 10.1 feet at their junction.
• Three Servicemen Statue: Bronze sculpture by Frederick Hart depicting three soldiers added in 1984.
• Vietnam Women's Memorial: Nearby bronze depicting three uniformed women with a wounded soldier, added in 1993.

History

Designed by 21-year-old Yale architecture student Maya Lin, whose entry was selected from 1,421 submissions. Dedicated on November 13, 1982, the design was initially controversial but has become one of the most visited memorials in Washington.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Names are listed chronologically by date of casualty—use the alphabetical directory at either end to find specific names.
• Tip 2: Paper and pencil rubbings of names are a longstanding tradition; volunteers often assist.
• Duration: 15–20 minutes.