We have fought for our nation around the globe with no place in America to
call our own.
We have left our mark on history; we need a place in which to preserve our legacy.
We remember, but we have no place to reflect.
It's time to change that. We are the ones to change it.
If not us, who? If not now, when?
The 173d Airborne Brigade Memorial will be located at a prime site on the Walk of Honor at the nation's new National Infantry Museum, immediately adjacent to Fort Benning, Georgia.
Why do we need it?
The 173d has many markers and monuments. Its Medal of Honor recipients are recognized throughout the nation. Our fallen comrades are named in state memorials and on The Wall. But there is no place where all this comes together, no place to tell our story.
This is our chance to be honored as one unit, the finest airborne troops in history.
It brings us all together at a place almost every one of us has trained and many have served.
It provides a permanent memorial in the U.S. accessible to all of us - Sky Soldiers, family, friends.
What will it be?
A memorial to all who have served or will serve in the 173d Airborne Brigade, especially to those who fell in combat, whose names will be listed from all engagements those that have been and those to come in the order in which they were taken from us.
A powerful design, built on the concept of a circle of sacred ground with the Wing and Sword dramatically rising toward the sky and our story told under its banner.
A place more than a marker or a monument that provides opportunity for reflection as well as commemoration. A destination that can help us tell our children and grandchildren (and yes, great-grandchildren) about our service, our legacy, and our comrades, with the benefit of an extraordinary museum that helps them understand what we did and why we did it.
A visible reminder of our legacy, seen by those who take part in or attend graduations and other ceremonies for the Infantry, Airborne, Armor, and Office Candidate Schools tens of thousands every year who will learn of the Brigade, what it stands for, and how it has served the nation.
Where will it be?
On land fully accessible to the general public (no fee and no need to go through clearance to get on post), just west of Fort Benning and east of the Chattahoochee River, about a 10-minute drive from downtown Columbus, GA, and about 90 minutes from Atlanta.
An integral part of the campus of the National Infantry Museum, slated to be among the premier attractions in this area.
Prominently located along the Walk of Honor that adjoins the Parade Ground.
Designed with ample space to expand as the Brigade's history continues.
Where will the money come from?
Voluntary donations from people like you - present and former Sky Soldiers, and family and friends of Sky Soldiers - along with corporations, private foundations, and a variety of fund-raising events.
The total cost for the project is estimated at less than $650,000, including all construction, fundraising, and management costs. This amount will be reduced through discounts and gifts-in-kind that will be sought from vendors.