WASHINGTON DC, United States — The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, designed by Maya Lin, illuminated by the soft light of sunrise. The black granite walls, etched with the names of fallen soldiers, reflect the early morning sky, creating a solemn and reflective atmosphere on the National Mall.
Photograph by David Coleman. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, captured at sunrise, presents a powerful and contemplative scene. Designed by Maya Lin and dedicated in 1982, the memorial consists of two black granite walls that meet at an angle, stretching 246 feet and bearing the names of over 58,000 Americans who died or went missing during the Vietnam War. In the early morning light, the polished black granite surface takes on a mirror-like quality, reflecting the changing colors of the dawn sky and the surrounding trees. This interplay of light and reflection enhances the memorial's ability to evoke emotion and introspection. The names, chronologically listed by date of casualty, are etched into the granite, allowing visitors to touch and make rubbings of individual names. At sunrise, the low angle of light may cast long shadows across the wall, emphasizing the engraved names and adding depth to the memorial's texture. The memorial's minimalist design, contrasting with the more traditional monuments nearby, encourages a personal and intimate experience for visitors. Early morning visitors often find a particularly quiet and reverent atmosphere, ideal for contemplation and remembrance. This iconic memorial, a centerpiece of the National Mall, continues to serve as a powerful tribute to those who served in the Vietnam War and a place for healing and reflection for veterans, families, and all who visit.
Size: 6871px × 4581px
Location: National Mall, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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