National World War II Memorial

NATIONAL MALL. Located by the Washington Monument on the east end of the reflecting pool, this memorial and plaza surround the circular Rainbow Pool. Fifty-six stone pillars, each bearing a bronze wreath, represent the 56 US states and territories, and 4000 gold stars mounted on the curvilinear Freedom Wall commemorate the sacrifice of 400,000 Americans who lost their lives in the war. The Atlantic and Pacific Pavilions mark entranceways to the plaza, and each contains a fountain and sculpture of four eagles holding a laurel wreath overhead. METRO: Smithsonian