Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation Unveils Conceptual Design for National Mall Site

On June 10, 2026, the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation revealed the initial conceptual design for the Global War on Terrorism Memorial to be built on the National Mall. This will be just the second new memorial constructed on the National Mall in more than 20 years, and the first ever to be built while the conflict is still ongoing. Direct input on the design was gathered from nearly 20,000 Americans via nationwide survey, along with feedback from the 23-member Design Advisory Council that is made up of more than 20 Gold Star family members, active duty military, veterans from every war back to WWII, non-uniformed veterans and stakeholders.

BakerHostetler congratulates the outstanding Board of Directors, executives and staff of the Foundation on this major milestone and commends them for their tireless efforts. We are honored to have been working with the Foundation since 2016, from assisting with changing a federal law requiring a war to be over for 10 years before a memorial may be built on the National Mall, to advising on intellectual property work, employment issues and vendor contracts. The firm will continue to provide support and counsel as this sanctuary of remembrance, healing, engagement and education takes shape. The timeline toward a 2028 completion is as follows:

• Pre-work - Initiation Complete
• Phase 1 - Legislation Complete
• Phase 2 - Site selection and approval Complete
• Phase 3 - Design approval Q1 2027
  • Fundraising Q2 2027
• Phase 4 - Construction Projected Summer 2027
  • Dedication Projected November 25, 2028

In addition to the monument itself, the memorial will include a Digital Interpretation Center, an interactive extension that will include immersive educational content, interactive storytelling and insight into the site's history, symbolism and design. A living archive of the Global War on Terrorism generation, it will connect visitors on the Mall and around the world.

Many thoughtful details are included in the design, from the dramatic use of lighting to gathering spaces to a tribute to canine service members killed in action. The effects of war on the whole family are represented, all surrounded by the healing power of water.

Fundraising for the memorial continues, with a Founding Donor Wall to be located at the site for a period of ten years. It is available for individual, foundation and corporate donors.

Visit the Foundation's website for more information.