I tried to create something more than a statue – a symbol of unison of action and determination, the will to sacrifice, and the dedication to maintain peace and freedom, and to hold our flag high. This flag, which we honor and under which we serve, is the emblem of our unity, our power, our thoughts and our purpose as a nation. It has no other character than that which we give it from generation to generation. The choice is ours. It floats in majestic silence above the multitudes which execute this choice, whether in peace or in war. And yet, though silent, it speaks to us of the past, of the men and women who went before us and the record they wrote upon it. It has witnessed a great history and as it floats on high, it symbolizes an event which made this country great and the freedom for which our people have fought. It symbolizes a time on the field of battle when uncommon valor was a common virtue.
De Weldon’s original monument was ultimately recast as the Marine Corps Memorial in Arlington that we know today – it weighs 100 tons, stands at 78 feet (the largest bronze statue in the world), and is one of the few sites where an American flag is permitted to be flown 24 hours a day, every day.
The words de Weldon spoke at its unveiling more than seven decades ago are as relevant today as they were then. My parents, rebbeim, and teachers always stressed how important it is for all of us as American Jews to understand and appreciate how truly fortunate we are to reside in this blessed nation where, uniquely in our history in exile, we are privileged to live our lives as loyal and dedicated citizens of our country and as proud Jews.
God bless America, and a happy and healthy Independence Day to all!
