6th Marine Division Home Page

The Monument

Kevin Munroe's assignment was to the history of the 6th Marine Division, based an data supplied ('The History of the 6th Marine Division' 'Tennozan', etc.) and face-to-face discussions.

With this information, focusing on the Battle of Okinawa, he prepared a pertinent and appropriate rendering, truly commemorative, honoring those of our comrades who laid down their lives for their country.

The general configuration assimilates an Okinawan tomb, one of the true landmarks of this rural country in 1945. This recognizes the fact that these tombs were an integral part of the Battle of Okinawa. Also, it pays silent tribute to the 158,888 Okinawan civilians who died as innocent bystanders in this last great battle of World War II.

The inside circumference contains a bench which is for contemplative and/or meditative purposes.

The bench has inscriptions at the front signifying the areas where the units preceding the Sixth (22nd Marines, 1st provisional Marine Brigade, et al), as well as the Striking Sixth, fought in the pacific. They appear counterclockwise, in chronological order, with dates, ending with China.

At the head of the monument is a bronze replica of the 'SWORD and SIX,' about five feet in diameter, prominently displayed at ground level. The time capsule will be buried beneath this.

The plaque on the left of the entranceway contains the poem, 'Momuments and memories'. The plaque on the right will contain a map depicting the areas where the Sixth and Its predecessors fought in the Pacific, as well as a brief historical description.

Native trees and shrubs will be used to maintain landscape compatibility.

The overall dimensions are approximately 15' x 38'. The foundation is poured concrete and the perimeter is precast concrete. Special processing techniques will be used to closely assimilate natural stone and for long-term preservation.

The concept has received nearly-universal approval: by the National Cemetery System, the Membership and the General Public.