Sitting on the shore of Lake Michigan in downtown Milwaukee is the War Memorial Center. This powerful and impactful place honors the resilience and sacrifice of those who have served. But it’s more than a memorial. Inside, it honors heroes, teaches history, heals warriors, and celebrates events. Read on for a behind-the-scenes look at the War Memorial Center.
Serving Wisconsin
Established in 1944, the War Memorial Center began as a community-wide project. They set out to shine a light on the sacrifices made for our freedom in World War II. As more brave veterans sacrificed their lives, the Memorial expanded to honor one and all lives who served–lost and living.
Today, the War Memorial Center is recognized as Wisconsin’s most visible memorial to veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Services. Designed by famous architect Eero Saarinen, the building serves as a dedication to those who were lost defending our country. The entire structure, inside and out, is steeped in symbolism.
Its design echoes the German pillboxes that Allied soldiers encountered on the beaches of Normandy. From admiring the exterior to venturing inside, you’ll find powerful tributes like the Wisconsin Medal of Honor exhibit, a replica of a Hanoi Hilton prison cell, and a chandelier made of dog tags. Each tag represents Wisconsin POWs from the Civil War to the present day.
Serving the Living
Although half its mission is to honor the lives lost, the other half is to serve the living. Inside the Memorial, instrumental non-profit offices, veteran organizations, and auxiliary programs operate. Together, they help the living and serve veterans and active duty service members across the entire state of Wisconsin.
The non-profit and veteran-focused groups based at the War Memorial Center provide veterans with opportunities for connection, support, and a sense of community. During the warmer months, the Center opens a War Memorial Beer Garden, inviting the public to enjoy a cold drink on summer evenings as the waves lap against the Lake Michigan shoreline. This nightly gathering spot often serves as a place where veterans can reconnect and feel at home.
Honoring the Dead
At the War Memorial Center, hear the founding stories of America–preserved throughout the decades. However, the Memorial’s founders had more in mind than a static veterans memorial. They laid the foundation for the Living Memorial as we know it today, where incredible recollections are brought to life.
Encounter the sacrificed lives of soldiers through compelling memorials found across the property. To note, the West Facade Mosaic Mural captures dates of both the commencement and the final dates of World War II.
One of the most profound memorials is the Honor Roll and Eternal Flame, which shines a light on the many lives lost during World War II, in Korea, and Vietnam. Each memorial within these walls offers a moving and educational experience for all who visit.
As you experience these memorials firsthand, reflect on our freedoms–fought for by brave and defiant veterans of the past and present day. Honor the dead and discover these powerful memorials here.
Life-Changing Relationships
The War Memorial Center spans statewide and receives support from other organizations, such as The Weber Group. Based in La Crosse, The Weber Group is a multifaceted organization set on three pillars–accessibility, usability, and sustainability. Using these pillars as fuel, The Weber Group strives to bring Wisconsin destinations and experiences into the greater spotlight.
Of these amazing destinations are The Charmant, The Waterfront, Schuby’s, and Belle Square, to name a few. From hotels and restaurants to boutiques, The Weber Group spreads across an array of industries, with an overarching goal to promote healthy living. One of their most impactful projects is working with the War Memorial Center.
An Impactful Partnership
Underwritten by The Weber Group and created in collaboration with the War Memorial Center, the Discover Wisconsin episode ‘The War Memorial Center – A Living Memorial’ powerfully captures their history, mission, and greater impact.
Don Weber, Chairman of The Weber Group, shares, “As a veteran, being involved in this War Memorial project fills me with a deep sense of honor. It’s a humbling reminder of the sacrifices made and the lives lost, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to preserving their memory for generations to come.”
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The War Memorial Center is more than a memorial. It’s a powerful place that honors the fallen and serves the living. With the fueling support of The Weber Group, the War Memorial Center shares its overarching mission and offerings that are accessible to Wisconsinites statewide.
Immerse yourself in the incredible recollection below:
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Hailey Rose: Writer for Discover Mediaworks. A born & bred Wisconsinite with a love for fishing, hunting, and enjoying the great outdoors.
