Desert Shield and Desert Storm Memorial (U.S. National Park Service)

A curving wall with inscriptions. — Desert Shield and Desert Storm Memorial
NPS / Laurel Brodsky

Benches/Seating, Scenic View/Photo Spot

Desert Shield and Desert Storm Memorial is designed as a sanctuary and a celebration of unity and liberation. This corner of the National Mall becomes a sacred place, dedicated to remembering a moment in our nation’s history, which, though triumphant, was not without sacrifice.

Commemorating a significant moment of the 20th Century, the success of the Desert Shield and Desert Storm operations began with an extraordinary diplomatic effort to gain passage of United Nations Resolution 660 and assemble a unique global coalition that came together in service and sacrifice to liberate the State of Kuwait.

Design features

The Desert Shield and Desert Storm Memorial is an oasis set between two dune forms rising out of the fabric of the surrounding National Mall. Within the landform, two curving walls encircle a shaded grove. The sound of water bubbles from a source within these trees, unifying the space and creating a sanctuary.

A clockwise, circular path takes visitors along the "Storm Wall" depicting people and vehicles moving from left to right, symbolizing the military's left hook maneuver during Operation Desert Storm. The bas-relief on this wall depicts the build-up of the Operation, the troops on the ground, and the dawn of a new day.

The bald eagle and falcon symbolize the leadership of the United States and the role of regional allies, and commemorate the liberation of Kuwait.

On the "Inscription Wall," an inscription honors those who volunteered to serve and those who lost their lives in service.

In the center of the memorial, the Unity Shield commemorates all nations of the Coalition, highlighting success of cooperation and underscoring their shared sacrifice in this conflict. Reminiscent of a battle shield of antiquity, this element represents the collective effort of all coalition nations to join forces and assist the nation of Kuwait.

Inscriptions

Storm Wall

"My confidence in you is total, our cause is just! Now you must be the thunder and the lightning of Desert Storm." General H. Norman Schwarzkopf, Jr.

"We set out to confront an enemy abroad, and in the process transformed a nation at home." President George H. W. Bush

Inscription Wall

To Honor the Service and Sacrifice
Operation Desert Shield
Operation Desert Storm
United States Army
United States Marine Corps
United States Navy
United States Air Force
United States Coast Guard