The design for the memorial had specific intentions for each element. “It was created as a place to remember the lives that were lost in World War II, and as a tribute to the American war effort,†explained Project Architect Darren Zehner of Leo A Daly in Washington, DC. “The main focal point of the memorial is the ceremonial area where the 'field of stars' is located. On that wall, we have a series of 4,000 gold stars. Each star represents approximately 100 deaths for the 400,000 lives that were lost in World War II. The memorial itself has a series of double column pillars that are set along an elliptically shaped wall, representing the U.S. and its territories. There is a rope between the columns signifying the binding or tying together of the country in a unified effort for the war.â€
In creating such an historic landmark, natural stone was chosen for the primary foundation. More specifically, Kershaw granite was selected as the primary material for its aesthetic appeal, strength, water resistance and durability. “In the design, we went with materials that express longevity,†explained Zehner. “The compressive strength and density of granite is very high, and this particular granite is extremely hard.†New England Stone, LLC, of North Kingston, RI, assisted by three subcontractors provided all of this stone for the Memorial and two buildings. Kershaw granite, which is quarried in South Carolina, was specified for all of the vertical elements of the structure. The blocks of stone were quarried with a combination of drill and wedge, and diamond wire methods. The blocks were then transformed into slabs with the use of gangsaws and diamond wire saws.