The structure of the Vietnam Veterans Monument in Pittsburgh, PA was inspired by a hibiscus flower pod. The organic shape was meant to evoke rebirth. I found it touching that a small plant was growing under the foot of one of the soldiers.

The three major war memorials in Pittsburgh (WWII, Korea, and Vietnam) are all located in between the beautiful riverwalk and a bustling commercial area. People use the areas as parks, jogging along the river and eating lunch on the steps. No one else was visiting the memorials at the same time as me, but the trash indicates some interaction (though negative or passive at best).

I highlighted those who died from Washington County. That county neighbors my own and is where I was married last year.

The WWII monument in Pittsburgh is a more recent addition, as its style indicates. In addition to some classic elements, it also incorporates translucent images from the war and large panels of information.