Stained glass windows depicting troops in battle … statues of past presidents … and War Memorial Chapel are just a few examples depicting Washington National Cathedral’s rich military history.
Since its construction began in 1907, the Gothic-style structure has served as a spiritual center for Americans to gather and worship at services of national focus, as well as offer a haven of healing for service members and their families.
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“We have a long history of honoring veterans at the Cathedral since the Cathedral’s inception 100 years ago,” said Chief Operating Officer Robert Sokol. “We have a National Roll of Honor where we collect names of veterans who have served and sacrificed.”
The National Roll of Honor began in 1957 with the construction and donation of War Memorial Chapel — which honors men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who have served and protected our country. President Eisenhower and Queen Elizabeth II dedicated this chapel as a gift from the British for U.S. assistance in World War II.
The stained glass windows in War Memorial Chapel honor freedom and sacrifice — from those who fought in the Revolutionary War to World War II, the flag-raising at Iwo Jima, paratroopers landing on a battlefield, and military decorations, including the Medal of Honor.
“We are a national church. We are also a national treasure. We are a cathedral church and a convener, and veterans kind of touch on all four of those things,” said Sokol. “Where we are a national church, this is the place where the country comes to mourn, and to celebrate losses and achievements.”
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