Lost in thought I stand here. The New York Korean War Veterans Memorial is a poignant tribute to those who served. It stands in Battery Park near Castle Clinton. The memorial honors the military personnel of the Korean War. This war is often called the Forgotten War.
Dedicated on June 25 1991 the memorial predates the one in Washington D.C. by four years. Mac Adams a Welsh-born artist designed it. His design was chosen from over 100 entries.
The centerpiece is a 15-foot high stele. It is made of Pennsylvania black granite. A stainless steel cut-out shapes it. This cut-out is known as The Universal Soldier. The hollowed-out silhouette creates a void. This void symbolizes death and loss. Through the cut-out you can see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. This reinforces the theme of loss.
Mosaic flags decorate the base. These flags represent the countries that participated. They were part of the U.N.-sponsored mission. The base has three tiers. Barre gray granite paving blocks surround the stele. They are inscribed with numbers. These numbers represent the dead the wounded and the missing. They are from each of the 22 participating countries. These figures are based on official statistics.
A secret of the New York Korean War Veterans Memorial is revealed each year. On July 27 at 10 AM the sun shines through the soldier’s head. It lights up a plaque on the paving stones. This marks the time hostilities ended in Korea in 1953. The memorial functions as a sundial.
The New York Korean War Veterans Memorial offers more than just a visual experience. It evokes reflection and gratitude. It reminds us of the sacrifices made. These sacrifices were made by men and women in uniform. Charles B. Rangel a former U.S. Congressman from New York understood this firsthand. He said he knew the sacrifices made by veterans.
The New York Korean War Veterans Memorial stands as a testament. It ensures the Korean War is never truly forgotten. It serves as a place of remembrance. It is a place of honor for those who served. The memorial connects us to history. It allows us to reflect on the cost of freedom.