Tidewater Veterans Memorial

Tidewater Veterans Memorial. . , On 30 May 1988, this memorial was dedicated to the service of the thousands of deserving veterans of all wars from the Revolutionary War through the many conflicts which followed. The Tidewater area of Virginia is proud of its many military veterans and pays everlasting respect, homage and tribute to those who gave their best effort and finest sacrifice so that our way of life shall be preserved forever., Description of Memorial , As you view this dynamic and unique futuristic structure, three main themes will emerge. , “A World Divided by War" , “An Effort to bring All People Together” , “Service Given by the Veterans”. , The most striking feature one observes when walking around the site is a collection of large divided upright columns dominating the entire structure these represent one of three main themes “A World Divided by War.” The manner in which the forms are divided emphasize the effect and make the whole form more dynamic. A message from the past together with a message for the future., Within the center of the curved vertical columns are large cut outs of voids to dramatically symbolize a part the world that is lost when are war takes place., Observe that the spherical columns are resting in an overflowing pool of cascading water. The water element represents the single unifying factor within the entire structure to reflect the second main theme “An Effort to Bring All People Together.”, As you listen quietly, this constantly moving, rustling waterfall also symbolizes the noise and turmoil of war., The third and final theme of the design is represented by the eight flags immediately to the north of the main structure these symbolize the loyal “Service Given by the Veterans.” , The flags are of the United States, the Commonwealth of Virginia, the Five Military Services and a specially designed Tidewater Veterans Flag. The POW/MIA flag flying beneath the U.S. Flag is in special recognition of recent conflicts and our comment to those who have not yet returned., “It’s a very powerful piece of work” says the Chairman of the Arts Department at Old Dominion University. “It’s simple and yet creates an environment that people can walk through and be a part of. When the lights shine on it at night, the effect is spectacular. Memorials are not easy to create, they are so subjective, they have to incorporate the feelings of many different people. This work really does symbolize that.”, We Proudly Salute Them , They Shall Not Be Forgotten.