Set on an elevated site overlooking the Severn River and the U.S. Naval Academy, the Maryland World War II Memorial comprises an open-air amphitheater surrounded by rectangular stone columns. Learn about the state’s role in World War II and pay your respects to the more than 6,000 local soldiers who lost their lives in the conflict.
The memorial was authorized in the early 1990s but work did not begin on its construction until 1997 and it wasn’t dedicated until 1998. The memorial was designed by Cuba-born, New York-based architect Secundino Fernandez. Reflect on and pay tribute to the many fallen soldiers who are remembered at this site.
As you approach the monument, pause at the Governor Ritchie Scenic Overlook to enjoy the vistas. The site offers excellent views of the River Severn and the city of Annapolis, including the U.S. Naval Academy.
Take a guided tour of the memorial to learn all about the symbolic significance of its various elements. Enter the open-air amphitheater, which is bordered by 48 upright stone pillars, representing the 48 states that were part of the U.S. at the time of World War II. Inscribed on the horizontal black stone panels around the monument are the names of the 6,454 Marylanders who died during the war.
The monument is also surrounded by plaques marking various key World War II milestones. Look for the tall seven-sided obelisk, which is topped with the image of a star. The seven sides are symbolic of Maryland, which was the seventh state to join the Union back in 1788.
At the base are plaques commemorating each branch of the U.S. armed forces, including the U.S. Navy, the U.S. Army, the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Army Air Forces. Don’t leave without seeing the small white stone memorial dedicated to those who died at Pearl Harbor.
Find the Maryland World War II Memorial on the eastern bank of the Severn River near Jonas Park. Use city buses to get here or travel to the memorial as part of a city tour. Parking is available at the site and entry is free.
