Securing the Legacy: $40 Million WWII Memorial Preservation Campaign
Honoring Sacrifice, Preserving History—Together We Can Protect the WWII Memorial for Generations to Come.
Preserving a Legacy: Ensuring the WWII Memorial Endures for Generations
Since its dedication in 2004, the National World War II Memorial has stood as a solemn tribute to the 16 million Americans who served in uniform, the more than 400,000 who made the ultimate sacrifice, and the countless men and women who supported the war effort from home. It is a place of remembrance, reflection, and gratitude—a living monument to freedom and resilience.
Every year, over 5 million visitors walk the Memorial’s grounds, pausing to honor the courage and sacrifice of the Greatest Generation. Veterans gather here to share stories, families teach their children about history, and citizens unite to reflect on the values that shaped our nation. Yet, after two decades of service as a national landmark, time and nature have taken their toll.
A Call to Action: Protecting a National Treasure
At the end of fiscal year 2023, the National Park Service (NPS) reported an estimated $23.3 billion in deferred maintenance and repairs across roads, buildings, utility systems, and other structures throughout the National Park System. Given its limited financial and personnel resources, NPS has asked Friends of the National World War II Memorial to take a lead role in addressing the $40 million backlog of restoration and maintenance work needed at the WWII Memorial.
Cracks in the stone, weathered inscriptions, and aging infrastructure pose threats to the Memorial’s beauty and structural integrity. Without urgent intervention, these issues will continue to worsen, jeopardizing the site’s ability to inspire and educate future generations.
To meet this challenge, Friends is launching a $40 million fundraising campaign—a bold initiative to preserve this iconic tribute for years to come. These funds will be dedicated to vital repairs, structural reinforcements, and ongoing maintenance, ensuring that the Memorial remains a beacon of honor, unity, and sacrifice.
Why It Matters
The WWII Memorial is more than just granite and bronze—it’s a bridge to our past and a reminder of what’s possible when a nation unites for a common cause. It teaches us about resilience, sacrifice, and service. Protecting this site means preserving the stories of those who fought and sacrificed so that freedom could prevail.
Join Us in Securing the Legacy
Friends of the National World War II Memorial invites you to stand with us in this vital mission. Your support will help restore and protect the Memorial, ensuring that the sacrifices of the Greatest Generation are never forgotten. Together, we can honor their legacy and inspire future generations to carry forward the values they defended.
Donate today and help us preserve history for tomorrow.