christopher paprocki

Nice modern sculpture that is stylistic and unique. It’s located in a nice outdoor plaza that is a good place to sit and relax for a moment away from the National Mall.

Sometimes this modest statue can be overlooked compared to its counterpart nearby. It’s history is controversial as to the commission compared to the Maya Lin design.

While it is a different approach to a memorial of such high emotion and conceptual impact, it does offer some tangible realism to the soldier experience or at least representation of the human element that was in the jungles of Vietnam.

One high remark here is that it’s the first representation of an African American in sculpted form on the National Mall. The piece was unveiled in 1984.

I think one thing to consider while being in this space is how do these two different approaches merit memorial? What are the impacts of each on you? No wrong answers… only different perspectives and thoughts.

At any rate, it all reminds of us of the cost of a conflict grown into a war and the differences between the decision makers and those affected, the people.

Nice little spot along Wisconsin. I usually use the stairs behind the library as a scenic break from walking along Wisconsin.

There’s a nice view of Arlington when at the top.

Really nice trail near busy Georgetown.

It’s lovely to walk through the trails and take a break from buses, stop lights and honking horns.

Even in the the winter time, it’s still a good path to walk. Dog friendly too.