06/12/2026
From day one, our mission has been to listen to the warrior culture that emerged from this conflict, give voice to those who lived it, and ensure their experiences helped shape what this Memorial would become.
Beginning in 2018, we gathered input from the American people, culminating in more than 20,000 Americans across all 50 states and territories, veterans from every branch of service, Gold Star families, and veterans from every conflict since WWII. That feedback didn't just inform our process; it is embedded in every element of this design. Our 23-member Design Advisory Council, comprised of Gold Star parents, spouses, and children; combat veterans; active-duty service members and military families, worked alongside the design team to ensure that their lived experience and feedback guided every decision.
Our listening continues, which is why the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation launched a survey immediately after releasing the initial design concept to encourage continued, constructive dialogue. The same spirit of listening that began in 2018 and shaped this Memorial will carry us forward. We welcome the conversation as we continue this sacred no-fail mission to honor all those who served, sacrificed, and carried the burden of this war.
We value your feedback, take our survey: https://bit.ly/4xjZTTU
