National World War II Memorial

Dedicated by George W. Bush in 2004 at the eastern end of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Fifty-six granite pillars, one for each state and territory of the time, surround a large fountain plaza framed by two arches for the Atlantic and Pacific theatres. The Freedom Wall carries 4,048 gold stars, each representing 100 American dead. Around 4.4 million people visit each year, and on most days you will see Honor Flight groups of veterans being brought to see it. The fountains make it a welcome cool spot on a hot Mall day. Open 24 hours, free.