Spires: stainless steel over reinforced concrete; Honor Guard: bronze
Type:
Sculptures-Outdoor Sculpture
Sculptures
Owner/Location:
Located Arlington Virginia
Date:
Dedicated Oct. 14-15, 2006
Notes:
Inventory staff, 2006.
The information provided about this artwork was compiled as part of the Smithsonian American Art Museum's Inventories of American Painting and Sculpture database, designed to provide descriptive and location information on artworks by American artists in public and private collections worldwide.
Summary:
The memorial features three stainless steel spires by James Ingo Freed representing the core values of the Air Force --integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all that is done, as well as the three groups that make up the Air Force --active, guard, and reserve duty soldiers. The spires are also meant to resemble the "bomb burst" maneuver performed by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbird Demonstration team. At the base of the spires is the United States Air Force star. Standing nearby is a bronze sculpture of an honor guard consisting of four figures by Zenos Frudakis representing all airmen and women who are serving, will serve, and have served in the United States Air Force. Located nearby is a glass "Missing Man" contemplation wall. Two inscription walls are located at each end of the the central lawn surrounding the memorial.
