Poppy Wall of Honor on display on National Mall for Memorial Day Weekend
WASHINGTON (DC News Now) — More than 600,000 red poppies line the National Mall this weekend as part of the USAA’s Poppy Wall of Honor. Each flower represents a United States service member who made the ultimate sacrifice defending our country’s freedom since World War I.
“On one side, we have the history of the wars since World War I, talks about the lives lost in combat since World War I. The representation on the other side of the wall is more than 600,000 poppies, each poppy represents a life lost in combat,” said Joel Vargas, a senior military affairs representative with USAA.
Vargas hopes people are able to immerse themselves in the experience and learn more about the history and true meaning behind Memorial Day.
“It’s a day of reflection, a day of honor, a day of remembrance. It’s not a day to celebrate,” said Vargas. “I always tell my family: enjoy your picnic, enjoy your time, go to those barbecues, but find that moment to pay that respect to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.”
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The interactive display opened to the public Friday morning, nestled next to the Korean War Veterans Memorial.
For some of the first visitors, it was an emotional experience walking along the wall.
“I think it’s stunning, a really good way of memorializing those who have died in battle,” said Felix Pfeifle. “So many lives lost, and some in really gruesome ways. It really gives the heart some pause.”
During the evening hours, the poppy display will be lit up bright red.
It will be open to the public until 9 p.m. Friday, again from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
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