Existing comment:
District of Columbia World War Memorial:
"We are gathered her today to dedicate a new shrine to those residents of the District of Columbia who served in the World War. This temple will recall for all time their services and sacrifices."
-- President Herbert C. Hoover, November 11, 1931
Who Built This Memorial?
Following Congressional authorization in 1924, Washington Evening Star President Frank B. Noyes led the District of Columbia World War Memorial Commission to collect donations from District residents, school children, veterans groups, labor unions, and government officials. Designed by local architects Frederick H. Brooke, Nathan C. Wyeth, and Horace W. Peaslee and constructed by Washington's John Baird Company, this simple, dignified Doric temple testifies to the city's sacrifice.
Why does Armistice Day 1931 bear distinction?
Here, on the National Mall, thousands gathered despite threats to worldwide peace and economic security to dedicate the District of Columbia World War Memorial. Under the baton of the incomparable Washingtonian John Philip Sousa, the United States Marine Band performed rousing renditions of "Stars and Stripes Forever" and the new official national anthem, "The Star Spangled Banner." As sunlight pierced the clouds above, local veterans joined the General of the Armies, John J. Pershing, as President Herbert Hoover dedicated this memorial that forever proclaims "the story of heroic deeds done."
Who uses this Memorial?
Following its dedication, the memorial remained popular with District residents who flocked to frequent military band concerts. From 1936 to the present, local veterans organizations under the auspices of the District of Columbia World War Memorial and May Day Corporation annually meet to honor the Great War service of 26,000 Washingtonians. Just as architect Frederick Brooke hoped, these remembrances fill the air with the stirring words and music that resurrect faded memories. |