Last updated: March 14, 2024
Place
Information Panel: Something More than a Statue
Photo: NPS / Claire Hassler
Quick Facts
Amenities
3 listed
Audio Description, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Tactile Exhibit
Dedicated: 10 November 1954
Sculptor: Felix de Weldon (1907-2003)
Made of: Bronze and black granite from Sweden
Height: 79 feet, 23.8 m
Cost (1954): $850, 000
Paid for by: Individual Marines and friends of the Corps
Before World War II, there were no national memorials honoring American veterans. This was the first. Felix de Weldon was working for the Navy when he first saw the flag-raising photo. Powerfully inspired, he started work. He created his first small statue in only 48 hours. He then secured approval from the Corps and Congress to make something grander.
He hoped for monumental art that could "encompass the valiant spirit of our fighting men and thrill the heart of the Nation."
The Second Continental Congress, meeting in Philadelphia, first authorized the raising of the "Continental Marines" - in November 1775.
The well-known ability of the Marines to quickly respond to emergencies- in any part of the globe- has made them a part of almost every conflict in the history of the United States. Marines have "fought their country's battles" on every continent, and sailed every sea on the planet, for more than 240 years.
One of your best opportunities to learn more in depth about Marines, their challenges, triumphs, and traditions in not far away. Near Quantico, Virginia, about 30 minutes driving time from here, you can explore the National Museum of the Marine Corps or conduct research at the Marine Corps History Division.
Sculptor: Felix de Weldon (1907-2003)
Made of: Bronze and black granite from Sweden
Height: 79 feet, 23.8 m
Cost (1954): $850, 000
Paid for by: Individual Marines and friends of the Corps
Before World War II, there were no national memorials honoring American veterans. This was the first. Felix de Weldon was working for the Navy when he first saw the flag-raising photo. Powerfully inspired, he started work. He created his first small statue in only 48 hours. He then secured approval from the Corps and Congress to make something grander.
He hoped for monumental art that could "encompass the valiant spirit of our fighting men and thrill the heart of the Nation."
A Legacy Older than the Republic
You might be surprised to learn that there have been Marines for longer than there has been a country called the United States of America.The Second Continental Congress, meeting in Philadelphia, first authorized the raising of the "Continental Marines" - in November 1775.
The well-known ability of the Marines to quickly respond to emergencies- in any part of the globe- has made them a part of almost every conflict in the history of the United States. Marines have "fought their country's battles" on every continent, and sailed every sea on the planet, for more than 240 years.
One of your best opportunities to learn more in depth about Marines, their challenges, triumphs, and traditions in not far away. Near Quantico, Virginia, about 30 minutes driving time from here, you can explore the National Museum of the Marine Corps or conduct research at the Marine Corps History Division.