The Virginia War Memorial is a 1955 memorial in Richmond, Virginia, originally dedicated to Virginians killed in World War II and the Korean War. In 1980, the Shrine was enlarged to honor those Virginians killed in action in the Vietnam War. In 1996, the names of Virginians killed in action during Desert Storm/Desert Shield were added. Today, there are nearly 12,000 Virginians whose names are engraved on the Shrine of Memory's glass and stone walls. Reflecting the different character of war today, Virginia has created a special Memorial Shrine to honor the over 250 Virginians killed in the Global War on Terrorism.Use our Richmond trip planner to visit Virginia War Memorial on your trip to Richmond, and learn what else travelers and our writers recommend seeing nearby.
The Virginians at War documentary video series, combined with other efforts, significantly increased the War Memorial's public image in the local region and throughout the Commonwealth, and highlighted the message of the "Price of Freedom". The Memorial added staff and volunteers to meet the increasing demand for its educational offerings and to assist with increased visitors to the Memorial.
With over 21,000 people from 45 states and 21 countries visiting the War Memorial in 2008, the facilities were stretched to the breaking point. Some groups would be turned away and individual visitors could not be provided educational support because the single auditorium could not support multiple groups for education and meetings. The Memorial is also used by active military personnel for events such as homecomings, re-enlistments, and promotions.
To alleviate the increasing demand on the facilities, an education center was planned to expand the educational opportunities and outreach for students and visitors, and to provide adequate visitor services. A bold design was created to add an 18,000 square foot education center that would provide the needed space to accommodate multiple groups for educational and patriotic programs as well as the casual tourist who is exploring one of Virginia's treasures.
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Virginia War Memorial reviews
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This is a free attraction that is a memorial to all Virginians that served in military service no matter which war or which branch of the service they were in. It is a special tribute to those...
This is a free attraction that is a memorial to all Virginians that served in military service no matter which war or which branch of the service they were in. It is a special tribute to those... more »
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It’s a free and air conditioned. Donations excepted in drop boxes near the exit. This place is huge and amazing. A lot of though and effort went into this memorial. I highly recommend. Small parking..... more
It’s a free and air conditioned. Donations excepted in drop boxes near the exit. This place is huge and amazing. A lot of though and effort went into this memorial. I highly recommend. Small parking..... more »
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A beautiful building with an impressive view of the city. The memorial is for all Virginians who've served in battle during the history of our country and there is a wing dedicated to veterans. Here you can learn a little bit about the gear soldiers had in different wars and read some personal stories of more recent heroes. It's located next to a park & walking path that lead to Bell Island. I suggest stopping there if you're already using the recreational paths. Definitely the best view of the city I've seen yet.
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A very special place. Being a veteran I feel a special bond with all those who made the ultimate sacrifice. I feel humbled and, at the same time, proud. Proud to be an American and proud to have served and, also, very proud to be a part of the Brotherhood of those on active military duty and those who have served in years past.
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