Photographing Washington, D.C.: Digital Field Guide

Chapter 12. National World War II Memorial

The National World War II Memorial and the Washington Monument on an early fall morning from its west side. Taken at ISO 200, f/22, 1.3 seconds with a 35mm lens.

Why It's Worth a Photograph

The National World War II Memorial is dedicated to Americans, both civilian and military, who served during World War II. The ceremonial entrance to the memorial is from 17^th St. SW. Here, the bases of granite feature the military service seals of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Army Air Forces, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marine.

At either end of the memorial are pavilions representing the victory in the Atlantic and Pacific theaters. Granite pillars surround the memorial, representing the American states and territories, arranged by their order of entry into the Union. On the western side of the memorial is the Freedom Wall, adorned by sculpted gold stars representing Americans who gave their lives during the war.

Figure 12.1. The best locations from which to photograph the National World War II Memorial: (A) 17^th St. SW entrance, (B) between Delaware and New Jersey pillars, (C) next to Atlantic and Pacific Pavilions, and (D) across the Rainbow Pool. Nearby photo ops: (3) Ford's Theatre, (4) Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, (6) Korean War Veterans Memorial, ...