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World War II Memorial

 Picture Gallery 

From Our Vet Tour  

March 28, 2006 

<-- Click on the pictures to the left to view full size

The National World War II Memorial was dedicated on May 29, 2004 to commemorate the men and women who served in the armed forces, those who died serving their country and those on the home front who supported the war effort. This Monument defines the spirit of the American people.

One of the best things I have done for my father and uncle was to take them on the Vet Tour of the WWII Memorial. It was a long day but one of the best days I could have with my father and uncle. We started the day by gathering at the airport at dawn. At the airport our local USO arranged escort by a local contingent of army, navy and marines who came to honor our vets that day. The USO had a wonderful breakfast for us. We said the pledge of allegiance and sang the Star Spangled Banner and every vet knew all the words. How many people nowadays can do that?

We had a nice tour bus that was filled to capacity. Once we arrived at the Memorial, we had a flag ceremony. One of the 3 POW’s that was on the tour was designated as the bearer of the flag. This flag draped the coffin of an X-POW who never got to see the memorial. The family requested that the flag be displayed under the Ohio pillar in honor of their father. After the flag ceremony we had a fabulous lunch provided by our tour.  We had several hours to roam around the memorial. While I took pictures of the memorial strangers came up to my father and thanked him for his service and sacrifice many wanted to have their pictures taken with him. Still many more wanted to listen to his stories. He finally got validation for his service by his country and his fellow countrymen. I could not have been prouder.

Another special event that we got to see was the beginning of the Cherry festival in Washington DC . All the cherry trees are starting to bloom even at this early stage of the bloom it was beautiful to see.

From the WWII Memorial we went to the Korean and Viet Nam Wall Memorial, past Arlington National Cemetery to the Iwo Jima Memorial. We were provided with a nice dinner then from the restaurant back to the airport to return home. Before we knew it our one day trip was done. The memories and friends we made will last us a life time. The Veteran Tour Services Inc. gave us a memorable trip.  I am so glad that we went.  

February 6, 2008

I had to remove the link to Vet tours as they are no longer hosting tours to the WWII Memorial.  The Vet tours were run by a group of very dedicated volunteers who felt strongly about getting our Vets to see the Memorial. I’m sure that it must have become cost prohibited to continue.  However I want to Thank them for getting as many Vets as they did to see their memorial. God Bless them all...                                                                                       Sharon

At the Memorial located by the Pacific Arch are a bank of computers in a small building where anyone can type in a name to see if there is any information on a particular person.  Anyone can log onto the WWII Memorial website and enter in a loved one’s service information and the information will be kept in the National database. You can include a picture for a small fee. I have all my family members listed with pictures in the database.  This is a wonderful way to honor a loved one who has served their country during WWII. Go to www.WWIImemorial.com

On this page are a few of the pictures I took on our trip. Enjoy!

Sharon

~~In Memoriam~~

Emil Joseph Spodar

April 15, 1924 – October 5, 2006

Emil was my father’s younger brother. He served in the Merchant Marines for 40 years working in the engine room. During WWII he served on the Victory and Liberty ships that carried supplies and our troops around the world to where they were needed.

A gentle soul has passed. Peacefully sleep comes to a dear, beloved heart. Quietly we understand that the time has come to part. Tenderly the love shines on ~~ a never ending light.  Gratefully we feel its warmth, and say sweet dreams and good night Uncle Emil…