Navigating the Challenges of Memorializing the Global War on Terrorism: Lessons from Other National Memorials

Despite Congressional approval to establish a Global War on Terrorism Memorial located on the National Mall, questions loom regarding its design, programming, and our readiness to commemorate an ongoing conflict. Drawing from multidisciplinary, qualitative approaches, this research explores three crucial inquiries: lessons from existing war memorials, distinctions between war-named and veteran-named memorials, and the appropriateness of memorializing an ongoing war. By engaging in these inquiries, this study aims to ensure the GWOT Memorial will be a meaningful symbol in American memory.