I came across the Dade County War Memorial while exploring Bayfront Park in downtown Miami. The park is a kind of outdoor museum with a number of statues, memorials, and public art pieces that add interest and historical perspective.
I was drawn to the memorial by its classic design. It looked like it had been there for quite some time. I later learned it was designed by Edward Codere and dedicated on July 6, 1943, to commemorate soldiers from Dade County who lost their lives during the World Wars. During this time, the U.S. Navy commandeered the park and retained control of it throughout the war before returning it to the city in 1950. At the time of the memorial's dedication, there were eighty-seven names inscribed. It was rededicated in 1946 with the addition of 553 names. In November 1990, the memorial was rededicated again after having been vandalized.
The monument is 11 feet tall and 24 feet wide. At its center is a bronze plaque, and the fluted column is topped by an eagle. On each side are quotes: one by Franklin D. Roosevelt, "It is far better to die on our feet than to live forever on our knees," and one by General MacArthur, "We shall win or we shall die."
This powerful structure honors the bravery and sacrifice of the men and women who served in World War I and World War II. The next time you are in the park, stop for a moment and pay your respects at this symbol of remembrance. read more