Pentagon Memorial, Arlington

The Pentagon Memorial, situated in Arlington, Virginia, stands as a poignant tribute to the 184 lives lost during the tragic events of September 11, 2001. This solemn outdoor park, adjacent to the Pentagon itself, is a place of reflection and remembrance for the victims of the attack on the Pentagon.

Opened to the public on September 11, 2008, the memorial features 184 illuminated benches, each one representing an individual who perished, arranged according to the victims' ages, from 3 to 71 years old. The benches are organized along a timeline of their birth years, creating a powerful and personal experience for visitors as they walk through the space.

Each bench is made of stainless steel and inlaid with granite, and is positioned above a reflecting pool of water, lit from below at night, casting a serene glow throughout the memorial. The benches facing the Pentagon symbolize the victims who were on American Airlines Flight 77, while the benches facing away from the Pentagon honor those who were inside the building.

The design of the Pentagon Memorial invites contemplation, with its carefully landscaped 1.93-acre park filled with Crape Myrtle trees, offering a tranquil setting amidst the urban backdrop. It is a space where family, friends, and the public can gather to pay their respects and remember the individuals whose lives were cut short.

The memorial is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and there is no admission fee. It is easily accessible by public transportation, with the Pentagon Metro station nearby. For those driving, parking is available but may be limited, so visitors are encouraged to use public transit when possible.