Purpose
Citadel alumni have served in every national conflict since the Mexican War, and to date many have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country. To The Citadel patriot dead who have immortalized their alma mater’s core values by performing their DUTY, serving with HONOR, and sacrificing their lives, we owe our eternal RESPECT.
In recognition of its 50th reunion and in collaboration with The Citadel’s administration and The Citadel Foundation, The Citadel Class of 1967 envisioned and provided funding for the construction and maintenance of a memorial honoring these fallen heroes.
Design
Fittingly situated in front of the Thomas D. Howie Memorial Bell Tower and Columbarium, and adjacent to Summerall Chapel and General Mark W. Clark’s gravesite, The Citadel War Memorial offers a solemn gathering place for students, alumni, and visitors to honor and pay respect to Citadel lives sacrificed.
The design features wrought iron gates leading visitors to an interior courtyard, where black granite walls bear contextual descriptions of The Citadel’s involvement in wars and conflicts since 1846. Names of The Citadel fallen are etched under each conflict as appropriate. Flagpoles bearing the colors of the United States, the State of South Carolina, and The Citadel standard, are front and center. Other features include benches for quiet contemplation, subdued yet beautiful landscaping, and vistas of other iconic Citadel structures, inspiring remembrance, reverence, and reflection.
What You Can Do
Construction coincided with The Citadel’s 175th Anniversary, with the memorial’s dedication held during Homecoming 2017, in honor of the Class of 1967’s 50th reunion. All classes, organizations, and individuals have an opportunity to participate in honoring those Citadel alumni who have given their lives in defense of our nation. Contributions in any amount may be designated to The Citadel War Memorial Maintenance Fund.