November 11

On November 11, 1921, U.S. President Warren G. Harding led a solemn dedication ceremony for the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery. The monument was created to honor unidentified American soldiers who fell during World War I. White marble sarcophagi containing remains recovered from battlefield graves in France were interred beneath the memorial. The event established a lasting tradition of remembrance on Armistice Day, later known as Veterans Day. Today, the Tomb remains a sacred site where wreaths are laid annually to pay tribute to the nation’s unknown fallen.

On November 11, 1934, the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne was formally unveiled to commemorate Australians who served in World War I. Designed by architects Philip Hudson and James Wardrop, its classical form echoes the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus. The Stone of Remembrance and the Sanctuary house the Roll of Honour listing 102,000 names. Over time, the memorial has come to honor all Australians who have served in conflict. It remains the focal point for ANZAC Day dawn services and a symbol of national heritage.

On Veterans Day 1993, the Vietnam Women’s Memorial was unveiled adjacent to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on the National Mall. Created by sculptor Glenna Goodacre, the bronze statue depicts three women caring for a wounded soldier, honoring the service of nurses, medics, and support personnel. The memorial recognized the often-overlooked contributions of over 11,000 American women who served during the Vietnam War. Its dedication ceremony drew veterans, families, and dignitaries, highlighting the importance of inclusive remembrance. The monument has since become a poignant site for education and reflection on the diverse roles women played in wartime.