Talk about a monument with a long name . . .
The Japanese American Memorial to Patriotism During World War II is one of the lesser known memorials in Washington, DC. To me, it’s also one of the most interesting.
Dedicated in 2000, the memorial honors the loyalty and courage of Japanese Americans during World War II, and commemorates the heroism and bravery of those who fought and died for our country. It also serves as an acknowledgement of and apology for the injustice of interning Japanese Americans during World War II.
I’ve taken a couple of trips to see the memorial recently – and finally got some photos I’m happy with.
(c) 2008 Patty Hankins
The most striking aspect of the monument is the incredible sculpture of two cranes with barbed wire by Nina Akuma. Here it is – backed by some early blooming cherry trees.
The names of the ten World War II relocation camps – and the number of people interned in each camp are inscribed on the granite walls surrounding the sculpture.
(c) 2008 Patty Hankins
There are also granite panels with quotations from President Harry Truman
(c) 2008 Patty Hankins
And famous Japanese Americans including Sen. Daniel Inouye
(c) 2008 Patty Hankins
And civil rights advocate Mike Masaoka
(c) 2008 Patty Hankins
The memorial is located not far from the Capitol and Union Station in downtown, DC – on the triangle bounded by Louisiana Ave NW, New Jersey Ave NW and D St NW.
If you’re in DC – be sure to take a few minutes to visit the Japanese American Memorial to Patriotism During World War II – it’s well worth seeing.