Arizona’s Unique Way Of Honoring Our Veterans

Veterans Day is coming up, and Arizona is gearing up to honor the brave men and women who have fought for our right to freedom. With the 13th highest veteran population in America, the Grand Canyon State does its best to go all out for our local heroes.

In between the parades, speeches, and block parties, however, lies a touching and eternal monument to our nation's greatest heroes.

What is The Anthem Veterans Memorial?

First dedicated in 2011, the Anthem Veterans Memorial is meant to be an everlasting reminder of those who served in our nation's military. It's located in (surprise surprise) Anthem, Arizona, in Community Park.

The monument is composed of five stone pillars, each meant to represent a different branch of the United States Military. They each have their branch's seal and are arranged according to the Order of Precedence from the Department of Defense. Around these pillars, are bricks holding the names of those who have served, flanked by "Solider Rows".

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What Makes Anthem Veterans Memorial Special?

Aside from the emotion you'll likely feel when you experience this monumental piece of art, this memorial has a special secret. As a monument to veterans, the city of Anthem wanted to make a point to highlight Veterans Day, and made sure to do it in the coolest way possible.

At 11:11 on November 11th (the exact time and date World War I came to a close), the sun hits the monument at just the right angle to point a bean of light onto the Great seal of the United States, which lies in a glass mosaic on the ground.

If you want a perfect place to honor Veterans Day, there's no better place in Arizona than the Anthem Veterans Memorial.

[Anthem Council][Anthem Veterans Memorial via Wikipedia]