Since 2016, OLIN has served as Lead Designer for the Desert Shield and Desert Storm Memorial, working with our design, artist, and fabrication partners to guide the project through federal approvals, planning, and design development. This past weekend, on Saturday, October 24, the memorial officially opened to the public on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. At the dedication ceremony, Partner-in-Charge Skip Graffam, FASLA, spoke about the site selection process and the design concept behind the memorial, sharing insight into the vision and collaborative effort that brought the project to fruition.
Located near the Lincoln Memorial at the intersection of 23rd Street and Constitution Avenue, this long-awaited monument stands as a permanent tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the American and coalition service members who liberated Kuwait.
Designed as an oasis within the larger landscape of the National Mall, the memorial draws inspiration from the Barchan Dunes of Kuwait and Iraq. Its sculpted landforms, curving pathways, and artwork reflect the desert landscape and the historic “left hook” maneuver of Operation Desert Storm.
The Storm Wall captures the speed and power of the military operation through artist Emily Bedard’s bas-relief, depicting the journey from military buildup to combat and the liberation of Kuwait. Two stainless steel raptors by artist Robert Eccleston—a Bald Eagle representing the United States and a Saker Falcon representing Kuwait—symbolize victory, freedom, and Kuwait’s return as a sovereign nation.
The Inscription Wall honors the service and sacrifice of the all-volunteer force through two intertwined wreaths representing Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. At the heart of the memorial, the Unity Shield recognizes the 41 coalition countries that supported Kuwait’s liberation. Surrounded by planting and the soothing sound of water, this peaceful space invites visitors to pause, reflect, and remember.
Thank you to the National Desert Storm War Memorial Association, CSO, AECOM, Fluidity Design, L’Observatoire International, Emily Bedard, Robert Eccleston, VHB, North Arrow, Arsee Engineers, Hines, Arborist Consulting & Tree Preservation, Clark Construction, Rugo Stone, Campolonghi Italia, Pedrini, and Pangolin Editions for their leadership, collaboration, and craftsmanship throughout this project.
To the veterans of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, this memorial honors your service and sacrifice and recognizes the role you played in the liberation of Kuwait. May it serve as a lasting tribute to your contributions and a place of remembrance for generations to come.
