“Valor” one letter to a slab. Here at the World War II Veterans’ Memorial, we honor the brave souls who served. This memorial stands as a testament to their sacrifices.
Los Angeles has a deep connection to veterans. The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum was dedicated to World War I veterans in 1923. After World War II, it was rededicated to honor both wars in 1946. Some felt the wars deserved separate recognition. Plans emerged for a dedicated World War II Memorial in Exposition Park.
A design based on the Iwo Jima flag raising was approved in 1953. However, this park memorial never materialized. The Sports Arena became the city’s memorial to World War II and the Korean War in 1959. It later included the Vietnam Conflict in 1966. The Coliseum then became the County WWI memorial again.
In 2006, a monument honoring Filipino American veterans was unveiled. This monument tells their story of service during World War II. The monument stands in Lake Street Park. It consists of five black granite slabs. Each slab tells a piece of Filipino American history. The narrative begins with the U.S. colonial occupation of the Philippines. It concludes with the veterans’ fight for honor.
The Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs honored local veterans. It premiered a documentary called “Unsung Heroes of the Greatest Generation.” The film highlights contributions of service members who faced prejudice. Yoshio Nakamura’s story is featured. He served in the 442nd Regimental Combat Team.
The 442nd was one of the most decorated combat units in U.S. military history. Nakamura volunteered from the Gila River Japanese internment camp. His unit scaled Mount Folgorito in Italy. They secured a key victory for allied forces. The film recounts ten stories of Los Angeles veterans. These veterans fought against the Axis Powers.
The National Submarine Memorial West is at Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach. It is dedicated to the submariners lost in World War II. The memorial includes plaques for each of the 52 U.S. submarines lost. Submarines destroyed over 55% of all Japanese shipping during WWII. This came at a great cost.
The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum remembers its heritage. It pays tribute to those who answered the nation’s call. The World War II Veterans’ Memorial serves as a constant reminder. It honors the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of those who served. May we never forget their contributions to freedom.