New sculpture unveiled at World War I Memorial in D.C

A significant event took place on Friday with the unveiling of a new bronze sculpture at the national World War I Memorial in Washington, D.C. Created by sculptor Sabin Howard, the artwork, titled A Soldier's Journey, weighs 25 tons and spans 60 feet in length. It depicts 38 human figures that narrate the journey of a single 'doughboy' as he departs from home, experiences the horrors of war, and ultimately returns. This sculpture serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by American soldiers during the conflict. The memorial, which was dedicated in 2021, integrates an existing tribute to General John J. Pershing, who led the American Expeditionary Forces in World War I. In addition to the sculpture, the memorial features a peace fountain that includes a verse from Archibald MacLeish's poem, 'The Young Dead Soldiers Do Not Speak.' This artistic representation aims to honor the memory of those who served and lost their lives in the war. The unveiling ceremony was marked by various festivities, including musical performances, reenactments of wartime events, and displays of World War I vehicles. These activities not only celebrate the new sculpture but also engage the public in remembering the historical significance of the war and its impact on American society. The District of Columbia War Memorial, built in 1931, also commemorates the contributions of over 26,000 local soldiers who served in World War I. With approximately 4.7 million Americans having served in the war, the memorials stand as vital reminders of the sacrifices made, with around 117,000 soldiers losing their lives and many more returning with injuries.