Proposal for Global War on Terrorism Memorial on National Mall Faces Criticism

A proposal for a new memorial on the National Mall, intended to honor service members who served in the Global War on Terror, has received criticism from some Republican lawmakers and veterans. The Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation revealed the design on June 12, 2026. Senator Jim Banks (R-IN), a veteran, described the proposal as a disgrace, emphasizing the need to honor fallen service members with dignity. The memorial is designed to feature reclaimed war steel and living vegetation, forming an abstract crescent shape without statues. It will include symbolic footprints and relics from the 9/11 attacks. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) also criticized the design, suggesting it lacks the necessary nameplates for fallen service members. The project is led by architect Kengo Kuma, who is working with a Design Advisory Council that includes Gold Star family members and veterans. The memorial foundation was established in 2015, and construction is scheduled to begin in 2027, with completion expected in 2028.