Securing the Legacy: $50 Million WWII Memorial Preservation Campaign

Since its dedication in 2004, the National World War II Memorial has stood as a powerful tribute to the 16 million Americans who served in uniform, the more than 400,000 who gave their lives, and the countless civilians who supported the war effort from home. It is a place of remembrance, reflection, and national gratitude—a living monument to freedom, resilience, and unity.

Every year, more than 5 million people visit the Memorial to honor the legacy of the Greatest Generation. Veterans return to share their stories. Families come to teach their children. Citizens pause to reflect on the price of liberty.

But after two decades, this national treasure is at a tipping point.

The Memorial Is in Danger—And We Must Act Now

The passage of time and the forces of nature have taken a toll. Cracks in the stone. Fading inscriptions. Aging infrastructure. Without urgent repairs, the Memorial’s beauty, safety, and very purpose are at risk.

At the end of fiscal year 2023, the National Park Service reported $23.3 billion in deferred maintenance across the park system. With limited federal funding and staff, the National Park Service has asked Friends of the National World War II Memorial to lead the effort to address a staggering $50 million backlog of critical repairs and restoration work at the WWII Memorial.

We cannot wait. If we don’t act now, the Memorial—and all it stands for—could begin to fade.

Why It Matters More Than Ever

This Memorial is more than granite and bronze—it’s a living reminder of the unity, courage, and sacrifice that defined an entire generation. It tells the story of what we can achieve when we come together for the greater good.

If we allow this site to deteriorate, we risk losing far more than a physical structure. We risk losing the lessons, values, and stories that shaped the modern world.

Why Friends of the National World War II Memorial?

Friends is the only nonprofit solely dedicated to honoring, educating, and now preserving at the National World War II Memorial.

For more than two decades, we’ve taken the lead in commemorating the service and sacrifice of WWII veterans through powerful public ceremonies. We’ve developed independent, national-scale educational programs that connect teachers and students to the legacy of World War II.

And now, at a moment of great urgency, Friends is stepping forward to lead the charge in protecting the Memorial itself.

In partnership with the National Park Service—but driven by our own mission and the support of donors like you—we are launching a $50 million campaign to save the Memorial from disrepair and ensure it continues to inspire generations to come.

This Is the Moment. You Can Make the Difference.

Your support is more than a donation—it’s an act of remembrance. An act of gratitude. An act of national stewardship.

Help us safeguard this sacred space. Help us ensure that the legacy of the Greatest Generation lives on—not just in history books, but in the very stones of our nation’s capital.

Give today. Because tomorrow depends on what we preserve today.