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Marine Corps War Memorial
Category: Public Services & Government Landmarks & Historical Buildings Landmarks & Historical Buildings [Edit]
Arlington National CemeteryMeade St and Marshall Dr
Arlington, VA 22111
38 reviews for Marine Corps War Memorial
Review Highlights
"The Iwo Jima Memorial is impressive any time."
(in 11 reviews)
"...this memorial you can see the well lit Washington Monument."
(in 7 reviews)
"Five Reasons to go to the Sunset Parade at Iwo Jima."
(in 5 reviews)
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38 reviews in English
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Review from Ari S.
11/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
Well come on----this has to have 5 stars.
This memorial is very powerful! It's absolutely huge and is definitely a favorite stop when I am in Washington DC.
This memorial is also very special to my family, we have had numerous members in the Marines and also in other branches of the military.
Please take time to visit when you are near! It's the Marine Corps War Memorial!! Definitely should be on everyones "bucket list!" -
Review from Scott H.
Alexandria, VA
9/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
It's the Marine Corps War Memorial, enough said!
Semper FI! -
Review from Kyle S.
Fullerton, CA
1/17/2012
I only had the opportunity to drive past this memorial but it is still just as memorable. I thought this memorial was realistically sized but in reality it is huge just towering over the visitors and just so touching.
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Review from Michael S.
Marina del Rey, CA
The iconic Iwo Jima Memorial is the central monument of the Marine Corps War Memorial overlooking the Potomac and Washington DC. After several visits to the area, it was exciting to finally get a chance to see this larger-than-life statue up close.
What made the experience special was to do so on July 4 with thousands of others celebrating and waiting for the Independence Day Fireworks across the river. It's an excellent spot to see the pyrotechnic display commemorating the Declaration of Independence without all the hassles of the National Mall. Take the Metro to Rosslyn and walk just a couple blocks to the Memorial and park.
The Iwo Jima Memorial is impressive any time. At night, with the bright lights accentuating the contrast between the night sky and the dark statues, it becomes inspirational. By coming at dusk, you get to see it both in the light and at night.
This may not be on your list of must-see attractions, but it should be. If you get a day-pass for the metro, take some time to stop at Rosslyn and view one of the better and most enduring symbols of the bravery of the Unites States Marine Corps.Listed in: DC Vacation
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Review from Heidi N.
Arlington, VA
11/25/2011 1 photo
I'm not sure how anyone could give a bad review of a beautiful memorial surrounded by a gorgeous park. I'm lucky enough that this memorial is literally right next to my apartment building. It's such a nice place to walk around, and has a beautiful view of the Capitol and the Washington Monument. It is also right next to the often-overlooked Netherlands Carillon, and Arlington Cemetery and it would be easy to visit all three in a few hours. For tourists, I think it's definitely worth venturing into Virginia.
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Review from Danielle S.
Prospect Heights, IL
10/6/2011
Another great memorial in D.C. It's very life-like, and just one of those things you have to see in person. Take time to read the inscriptions - it's all part of the experience!
Listed in: D.C. Is The Place To Be!
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Review from Tom G.
9/11/2011 8 Check-ins Here
A Pretty impressive statue just a short stroll from a long line of rancid porta potties that usually have fliers about missing dogs posted on their doors. If my dog was returned to me by someone who was comfortable sitting down in one of these veritable shitholes I'd tell them to keep the pup.
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Review from arlo d.
Colonia, NJ
4/12/2011 1 Check-in Here
Another one of my favorite memorials! Came here at night and it was a sight to see! From this memorial you can see the well lit Washington Monument! Even though not in DC its still a must stop on the tour! We didn't know how to get here from DC so luckily my girlfriend's cousin and her boyfriend who lived in Bethesda did and they took us here after getting ice cream. =P
We gotta pay tribute to those who helped shape and protect our country! And those marines do a hell of a job! I think this is only one stop away from the Arlington National Cemetery. That's another place I'd wanna visit. -
Review from Sparkely K.
Silicon Valley, CA
10/10/2010
It's one thing to see a photograph of the MCWM, but to be there, looking up at it, is another story. Incredible, especially at night, with the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial in the background! I got a chill when the trolley pulled to just the right spot to see all three!!
The detail on the statue is so life-like. It's really beautiful. -
Review from Cadence R.
Washington, DC
6/24/2009
Five Reasons to go to the Sunset Parade at Iwo Jima:
1. The Memorial is the largest bronze statue in the world. I bet you didn't know that and, if you're anything like me, you probably see Iwo Jima from far away/in the car, but you've never actually been up near it. Now's your chance!
2. First up you see the Marine Corp. Band which takes marching band nerds to a new, extremely precise level. Watch those French horns drop at exactly the right time. Although I needed a shot from the Goodyear blimp to appreciate the movements... Take a cue from college football please!
3. Marines are by far the sexiest of all military personnel, especially these ones for the following reasons:
a) This particular group of marines is stationed in the DC barracks. So they aren't sent to war and focus on entertaining people/not getting near death. Best of both worlds.
b) The marine uniform is leaps and bounds better than other military outfits. The white pants and blue jacket with the belt and everything. Guns that have bayonets? Yes please!
c) Swords. Seriously, uniforms that involve swords. I'm all over that.
4. So you get to see these hot marines (see point three above) do a completely silent drill after the band is done playing. Like tossing their guns around and marching all precisely. It was super cool, you'd have to see it for yourself or watch the opening of A Few Good Men to understand exactly what I'm talking about.
5. You can bring a picnic along! I would highly recommend a blanket, some bug spray and some snacks to really enjoy your overall experience here.
What else are you waiting for? Find yourself a free Tuesday this summer and scoot over to Iwo Jima!Listed in: Tourist Attractions!
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Review from Martin B.
College Park, MD
4/3/2010 1 photo
Honestly, I can't recall having ever come to the USMC War Memorial before today. I thought it would be a lot smaller than it is. The first thing that really struck me was that despite all the tourists in town, the Memorial wasn't very crowded. So this is definitely good to visit any time.
The statues themselves are so well crafted, and Old Glory flies beautifully above this dedication to the brave Marines who have served throughout history. It's really something you ought to see whether you're just in town for a few days or you've lived here all your life.
I definitely want to see the Sunset Parade when summer rolls around. -
Review from Jeff S.
Washington, DC
7/10/2007
Once upon a time I ran. I ran a lot. Every day I would run by the Iwo Jima Marine Corps Memorial on my to somewhere.
The first time I saw the memorial it was much more than I expected. It was huge. Then I saw the view from the memorial. It has one of the greatest views of DC from the hillside on the East side of the memorial. It is worth making trips at different times of the day to see the way the light shines on the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capital building.
This is a must if you are at Arlington Cemetery. There is a path you can use to walk to the memorial from the cemetery. If you are a bike rider or runner, there is a bike path that wraps around the outside of the cemetery and takes you to or from the memorial.
Don't miss this on your DC visit!Listed in: Things to do in DC
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Review from Amy S.
Dayton, OH
2/1/2010
While this memorial isn't technically in Washington DC, it is one of those places where you should go as it is really poignant and the symbolism is amazing.
While the statue depicts one of the most famous incidents of WWII, the memorial is dedicated to all Marines who have served their country. Why did they choose this imagery? On the morning of 19 Feb 1945, the 4th and 5th Marine Divisions invaded Iwo Jima with the order to capture Mt Suribachi. After 4 days, the Americans were thrilled by the sight of a small American flag flying from atop the Mountain. That afternoon, a larger flag was raised by 5 Marines and a Navy hospital corpsman. That is the picture that we've all seen.
Some interesting facts to look for.
*As you drive counter clock-wise around the monument, optical illusion makes it seem as if the flag is being raised.
*Each figure is 32 feet high with the M-1 rifle measuring in at 16 feet. Their canteens would hold 32 quarts of water
*No public funds were used for this memorial. All money was donated by Marines, their families, and their friends.
*It is made of Swedish black granite to simulate the volcanic rock of Mount Suribachi
*If you count the hands raising the flag, you will count 13 hands. Who does that mysterious 13th hand belong to? Some people say that it is the hand of God helping the soldiers raise the flag.
Its a moderate walk from the Rosslyn or Arlington Metro Stops -
Review from Melissa B.
Arlington, VA
3/25/2011 2 Check-ins Here
The hubby and I went on a random weeknight as the sun was setting. We were the only people at the memorial so we were able to enjoy it and take our time reading the inscriptions. I *highly* recommend you take the time to swing by. Get out at the Rosslyn metro station and walk a couple blocks to this memorial. You can also get some great shots of the Washington Monument, The Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial if you turn around.
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Review from carlos a.
4/2/2008 3 photos
This thing is HUGE.
It's not close to the National Mall and it doesn't appear that the Metro goes there.
This monument as as simple and elegant as they get. No fancy displays or text, just a monument to Marine efforts at Iwo Jima.
See pictures here:
http://farm4.static.fl...
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http://farm4.static.fl... -
Review from Greg G.
8/14/2008
Beside for the fact that this monument is a beautiful dedication to all of our fallen USMC personal... it really is an amazing statue!
It just looks so awesome, the soldiers lifting the flag, ever since i was a little kid this has always been my favorite statue.
You don't realize how big it is, either, until you're standing right next to it. It's huge! If you're on a vacation to Washington D.C., be sure to make the trip over to VA to see this Iwo Jima Memorial. -
Review from Mikkela T.
11/25/2007 1 photo
Great view of DC, the monument is bigger than you'd expect, the grassy area is a public park for laying about... you have to drive here and if you don't, then plan a good walk through the cemetery or Rosslyn. One good thing is that the portajohns seem to have become permanent residents so now you always have somewhere to go.Also, for those who like marathons and marines... this is where those two things converge one day in October. (An aside: apparently the Japanese have changed the spelling of Iwo Jima... but fortunately, thanks to Clint we won't get confused).
Last summer I led tours here. One of my tourists made a comment that ranks as one of the saddest I've heard all year... when wending her way around the base of the monument, reading the engraved "theaters" of Marine Corp engagement stretching in date back three hundred years, she looked down at the vast expanse of mausoleum black marble and said, "there is so much space for future battles." -
Review from mike g.
Sunnyvale, CA
10/30/2008
I DEFINITELY loved seeing this in person. I just ran the Marine Corps Marathon this past weekend. This was definitely the icing on the cake for a great weekend. Very motivating to see this in person.
I think Mikkela needs to get out and exercise a bit more. It wasn't very far of a walk at all to get to the monument, and it was very worth the short walk to see such an amazing monument. -
Review from Kelly P.
New York, NY
11/11/2008
I am fortunate enough to live within walking distance to the memorial. On nice days I like to take a walk or run past the monument if I get the chance. As some of the other reviewers have mentioned, this is such a great area...not only is the memorial a wonderful tribute to our Marine Corps, but there is plenty of green space to enjoy and a beautiful view of Washington D.C.
The location and scale of the monument was purposefully chosen. There are size restrictions on statues located within the District of Columbia. The artist of this monument wanted the figures to be large and powerful, and thus, chose the Virginia side of D.C. as the location for the memorial. -
Review from Faith D.
7/11/2010 1 Check-in Here
Great Memorial overlooking the Capitol, Washington Memorial, and the Lincoln Memorial. It was a great location to see the fireworks on the 4th!
During my last visit, I wasn't able to get the full feel of this Memorial due to the overwhelming amount of people on the 4th. However, I would like to make another visit to fully appreciate this place.
Take the Rosslyn Station and walk a few blocks to get here. -
Review from Jenn H.
4/21/2011 1 Check-in Here
my brother and i stopped by randomly. I'd seen the photo, but i was taken aback when I saw this! Great view, and the monument is huge! Will go back soon and take a few nighttime shots :)
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Review from Craig H.
Milwaukee, WI
8/8/2010
Visited here with my son and about 75 Boy Scouts on our way to the Boy Scout National Jamboree.
If you ever get into trouble go get a Marine - Semper Fi -
Review from Clara L.
10/9/2008 1 photo
I grew up with a small replica of the Iwo Jima statue in our house, in the form of a battery-powered radio. It was a random item that sat on display in my parents' house. So growing up, I always knew what it looked like (from this radio as well as photos in books and such), but never thought much about what the real memorial would look like.
Fast forward many years and add in some out-of-town guests who had Iwo Jima on their list of things to do. And off to find the Iwo Jima memorial, we go.
It is a very short drive from the Rosslyn metro area, and is walkable from the Rosslyn metro (I'd estimate around half a mile). Once you stand in front of it, you realize... it's HUGE! I stood in awe. And it's Beautiful! Down to every detail of the soldiers and the engravings. And if you turn around, you have a really great view of the Washington monument and capitol building with the US-50 highway in the foreground. -
Review from Jeffrey C.
San Francisco, CA
10/24/2008
When I first saw the Memorial, I was 14 years old.
It was 1997 and I was on my 8th grade school trip. I was geared with my hand-me-downs from my older brother, Jansport backpack, disposable cameras, and I also had a mushroom bowl hair cut.
I learned something really cool about this memorial during my trip.
Stare at it so that you're looking at the memorial just like all of the photographs available.
Now step back from the memorial so that you're a good 15-20 feet away from it. Walk in a clockwise motion, always keeping your eyes on the memorial.
Enjoy :) -
Review from Felix C.
Falls Church, VA
12/13/2010 1 Check-in Here
What an amazing monument to what our boys did in Iwo Jima! I am a Marine and are definitely biased here but this place feels like home. If you are in the area in the summer on a Tuesday it is a great place to catch the USMC Sunset Parade. It is completely free, needs no reservations of any sort and you can bring a blanket and picnic and watch a beautiful ceremony with your family and friends. You can also watch the 4th of July DC fireworks show but you have to get there early and get a good spot, it seriously gets packed! If those things are not possible just stop by when you are around and enjoy the monument and the perfectly situated views of the DC Skyline.
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Review from brian t.
Los Angeles, CA
10/12/2010 2 Check-ins Here
I went here at night and if you like taking pictures, this place is a dream come true. You can get a picture of the Marine Corp War Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the Capitol all in one shot. Since all attractions are lit up at night the lighting it great! Also, I didn't realize how huge the memorial would be. I've seen pictures, but never expected its real size. If you want a pic w/o any people in it, just wait for all the bused tourists to leave and you can get a clean shot.
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Review from david c.
Washington, DC
12/5/2010 2 Check-ins Here
Beautiful monument with an equally beautiful setting and view. Not to mention a short walk away from the Rosslyn Metro and the Arlington National Cemetery. A must stop for anyone going to DC
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Review from Elsie M.
Alexandria, VA
9/2/2009
It really is very moving seeing this in person. Its just so large, imposing and complex. The location is ideal, but if you are driving expect to circle a million times in confusion before you find parking and/or end back up on the 50. I do wish there was more current info posted about the memorial, the photos, all that jazz. But its only a wiki-away once you get home.
Listed in: Places to Take your Visiting…
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Review from Jen F.
I thought this memorial was beautiful. There was a ceremony with soldiers going on while I was there which made it a very somber and patriotic visit.
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Review from Brandon S.
Alexandria, VA
3/11/2009
This place is the Marine Corps War Memorial, not Iwo Jima Memorial. Though it is a statue of the Marines and one Corpsman that are raising the flag during the battle of Iwo Jima, it is a memorial for all Marines.
I know its encouraged to not review somewhere if you worked there. However, I'm not going to really give a review, rather than a couple helpful hints.
Every SUMMER, the Marines from 8th & I come down to the Marine Corps War Memorial for a sunset parade on TUESDAY evenings. The Drum & Bugle Corps will preform a few songs and then the Silent Drill Platoon will come out and do their drill routine. Seating is first come first serve, so get there a little early for a good heads on view. If it is a cool evening, which admittedly is rare in DC in June, July and August, Chesty, the official Marine Corps mascot and pedigree English Bulldog, will be there to grace you with his presence. If you hang around the VIP entry way and are dressed in business casual (khaki pants and a tucked in polo shirt or a summer dress) you will probably be invited by a senior Marine to take a seat inside the VIP area. The parades are free and the guest of honor is usually posted on the 8th & I website, as well as definite times. Food is allowed and some people bring quite a large picnic spread to enjoy! Just be sneaky with the wine though, the Arlington police don't care for that! Also, there will not be any parking available. Go to the Arlington National Cemetery Visitor Center or Metro in...the Marines block off the parking early in the day.
Also, when you see the Marines dripping in sweat while they are in their Dress Blues, don't ask them if they are hot. Even though mine are now stored in my closet, you can trust me, its sweltering in our Blues and we've heard it a million times already.
Semper Fidelis! -
Review from Amanda M.
Washington, DC
11/30/2008
A beautiful, dramatic sight. An image that captivates service, unity, strength. Dedicated to the Marines. The size of the sculpture is impressive and truly remarkable. This is definitely a monument to see when you're in D.C.
Listed in: D.C. Culture Vultures
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Review from Jason K.
Santa Monica, CA
2/4/2008 1 photo
Impressive memorial--much larger than you'd expect. It was especially beautiful covered in a light dusting of snow. I have to disagree with Mikkela T. though, we walked from the Metro station and it wasn't bad at all and it was snowing to boot!
Listed in: I went to DC
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Review from Michelle A.
Atlanta, GA
3/9/2010 1 photo
After walking all through Arlington, my mom and I thought we'd see this monument as well since we were in the area. It looks so small from far away, but it's actually VERY large! It's not too far of a hike, but if you've already walked through much of Arlington and you're not an avid hiker, it might be a bit of a haul for you. However, it's absolutely worth it to see, especially if you're already in Arlington. The immense size makes the piece all the more moving...
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Review from Chris D.
Centreville, VA
5/29/2010 1 Check-in Here
Amazing memorial and a really nice place for a picnic. You can reach it from Rossyln Station if you don't want to drive.
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Review from Alex E.
MA
3/31/2009
One of the most visible memorials as you drive down Rt. 50, it's a great starting point to explore Arlington Cemetery, the Carillon, or watch the 4th of July fireworks. If you are in the area, I highly recommend you stop by and relax by one of the iconic images of Word War II.
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Review from Dee B.
4/14/2008
One of DC's many simply beautiful monuments. Plus, if you walk toward the Carillon, you'll be treated to a wonderful view of DC.
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Review from Catie C.
5/16/2009 1 photo
I've seen this on TV/books, but seeing this in person is mesmerizing! The strength, the unity is what mesmerized me. And of course, the size of the statue! I never imagined it being so grand.
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Review from Jennifer S.
Arlington, VA
9/5/2006
Sadly, despite the fact that I live within (an ambitious) walking distance to The Iwo Jima Memorial, otherwise known as the Marine Corps War Memorial, I only visited it for the first time earlier this summer. I've been to the grounds many times, laying in the field on a nice day, and it's a great spot for fireworks on July 4th, but I've also been on a Tuesday evening when the Marine Corps have a Sunset Parade (they do this every Tuesday beginning in May). This event starts at 7 PM and features precision drills and music. The memorial itself though, the famous photo turned sculpture, is really incredible and the story (though too long to tell here) is an interesting one for the history buffs among us. One interesting point, the sculptor, whose name I cannot recall, had the actual survivors pose for the model and worked from photographs and measurements from the three that passed away on Iwo Jima to finish the rest or the reenactment.
Listed in: DC's LESSER known places to…
