Remembrance Day Vigil 2008
In many parts of the world, the holiday originally called “Armistice Day”, which we know as Veterans Day, is called “Remembrance Day”—a day to remember the sacrifices of those who have died in war.
In remembrance of those who have died, and in honor of those who have served and who continue to serve in harm’s way, on this field are 4,200 crosses and other markers, one for each U.S. serviceman and -woman who has died in the war in Iraq. Along the side are signs listing all 4,200 names of the fallen. As you take time to visit this vigil, and to read the names, let their memory be a blessing, and may the remembrance of their sacrifice hasten the day when “nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more.” (Isaiah 2:4)
Pictures from the Vigil |
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Setting up the crosses, using string to ensure the
rows were straight. |
One of the six signs listing the nearly 4,200 names of those who have
died in Iraq, and the nearly 700 names of those who have died in Afghanistan |
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The vigil would cross over the path, to create the effect of walking
amidst the graves of a memorial cemetery, such as Arlington. |
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A view from the south edge of the vigil. The visual
effect suggests a battlefield cemetery, such as the one at Normandy. |
A close up view. Over 250 sticks were adorned with a Star of David, a
crescent, a Hindu Om symbol, a Buddhist wheel, or left blank, to represent
the number of people of other faiths, or of no faith, who have died. |
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A sign describing the vigil, placed at the southwest
corner of the memorial. |
The view from across the quad. |