The Three Soldiers

The Three Soldiers is a powerful bronze sculpture located in Washington, D.C., as part of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Created by sculptor Frederick Hart, the statue depicts three American soldiers in combat gear, standing in a realistic and solemn pose. Unveiled in 1984, this artwork was designed to complement the more abstract design of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, offering a human face to the sacrifices made during the Vietnam War. The sculpture has become a moving tribute to those who served, providing a focal point for remembrance and reflection.

Why Visit The Three Soldiers

• A Symbol of Unity: The three soldiers represent the racial diversity of the U.S. military, with Caucasian, African American, and Hispanic soldiers standing together in brotherhood.
• Emotional Tribute: The sculpture provides a human connection to the names on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, giving visitors a more personal and emotional reflection of the soldiers’ experiences.
• Artistic Mastery: Admire the detail and craftsmanship of Frederick Hart's work, which captures the fatigue, strength, and camaraderie of soldiers in battle.
• Historic Significance: Located at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, The Three Soldiers statue complements the wall and enhances the overall experience of honoring those who served during the Vietnam War.

Best Time to Visit

The memorial is open year-round, and it is particularly poignant to visit during the early morning or late afternoon when the light casts long shadows over the sculpture and the surrounding memorial. Visiting during Memorial Day or Veterans Day offers a deeply moving experience, as the site holds special ceremonies that honor veterans and those lost in the war.

How to Get There

• By Metro: The nearest Metro station is Foggy Bottom (Blue, Orange, Silver lines), about a 15-minute walk from the memorial.
• By Bus: Several DC Circulator and Metrobus routes stop near the National Mall, making it easy to reach the memorial.
• By Car: Parking around the National Mall can be limited, but there are nearby garages and metered parking options available.
• By Bike: The memorial is accessible by bike, and Capital Bikeshare stations are located throughout the area for convenient rental.

Tips for Visitors

• Visit Early or Late: The Three Soldiers is a popular attraction, so visiting during off-peak hours provides a quieter and more reflective experience.
• Bring a Camera: Photography is allowed, and the statue offers dramatic photo opportunities, especially in natural light.
• Combine with Other Memorials: The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is located near other significant monuments like the Lincoln Memorial and the Korean War Veterans Memorial, making it easy to visit multiple sites in one trip.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Exploring the National Mall requires some walking, so be sure to wear comfortable footwear.
• Take Time to Reflect: Spend a moment reading the names on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall after viewing the sculpture to fully grasp the weight of the sacrifices made during the war.

The Three Soldiers sculpture is a touching and solemn tribute to those who served in the Vietnam War. As part of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, it stands as a symbol of unity, sacrifice, and remembrance, offering visitors a place to reflect on the human cost of war and honor the bravery of the soldiers.