101st Airborne Division Memorial

The 101st Airborne Division Memorial honors the airborne division's service and accomplishments since World War I. The Memorial is one of a series of memorials that line Memorial Avenue, the entrance to Arlington National Cemetery.

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History & Culture

101st Airborne Division The 101st Airborne Division was formed on July 23, 1918, during World War I. While the division was demobilized the following December with the end of the war, it was reactivated to serve in the United States Army in World War II.  The 101st participated in major campaigns, including D-Day, Market Garden, and Battle of the Bulge. The division was also instrumental in capturing Hitler's mountain retreat of Berchtesgaden at the end of the war.

The 101st Airborne Division was reactiviated and redeployed to serve in the Vietnam beginning in 1965. It participated in Dak To, the Kontum and Quang Tri provinces, and the Tet Offensive. It became the last division to leave Vietnam. The Division served again in Operation Desert Storm and various peacekeeping missions in the 1990s. The Division continues to serve in Operation Enduring Freedom.

Memorial

Erected in 1977, the memorial is comprised of a bronze "Screaming Eagle" sculpture on top of a granite base adorned with the unit's patch. It is inscribed with a quote from Major General William C. Lee, stated in 1942: "The 101st has no history…but it has a rendezvous with destiny." It also includes a list of engagements from World War I through Operation Desert Storm.

The Memorial served as the place for a memorial service for 248 members killed in a plane crash over Newfoundland in 1985.

Wreath Laying Ceremonies and Memorial Services

To obtain a permit for a wreath laying ceremony or memorial service, please contact the National Park Service at 703-289-2513.