Through the juxtaposition of marble and glass, the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial will convey an interplay of strength and vulnerability, loss and renewal. At this sacred spot, all of us—sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, wives, husbands and friends—will learn the important lessons of courage, sacrifice, tenacity, loyalty and honor by bearing witness to the experiences of our heroes who are disabled.

The focal point of the Memorial will be a star-shaped reflecting pool, its surface broken only by a single eternal flame. A grove of trees will stand sentry beside the pool, signifying the persistence of hope.

Dedicated to both the living and the deceased—a setting for coming together or quiet meditation—the Memorial will hold a special place in the hearts of all Americans, and will serve as a never-ending reminder to all of the cost of human conflict.

This unique and powerful design concept was conceived by Michael Vergason Landscape Architects, Ltd., and was approved in 2006 by the Commission of Fine Arts and the National Capital Planning Commission.

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