Veterans and groups are opposing President Donald Trump’s plan to build a 250-foot triumphal arch near Arlington National Cemetery. This project is one among several initiatives aimed at beautifying parts of Washington, according to Trump’s administration. Trump has stated that the arch is intended to honor veterans.
Concerns Raised by Veterans
VoteVets, a Democratic veterans organization, released a video featuring veterans and Gold Star families expressing concerns about the project’s impact on Arlington National Cemetery. They emphasized the importance of preserving the cemetery as a sacred burial ground.
“This isn’t about politics. It’s about letting a burial ground stay a burial ground,” VoteVets commented on social media.
Retired Army Major General Paul Eaton criticized the proposed observation deck, stating, “We don’t need tourists overlooking funerals.” Eaton, whose father was killed in action and buried at Arlington, described the arch placement as “entirely inappropriate” and approaching sacrilege.
Upcoming Construction
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum announced that excavation for the Great Triumphal Arch and Military Observation Deck at Memorial Circle would begin soon. Burgum called it “one of the Great Pieces of American Architecture.”
Legal Challenges
A group of Vietnam veterans and an architectural historian requested an emergency court order to halt construction on the project. They argued that it cannot proceed without congressional approval, fearing it would impact the view between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington House.
Democratic Representative Chellie Pingree urged House Speaker Mike Johnson to file a lawsuit to block the project, stating that Congress has not funded or authorized it under the Commemorative Works Act.
Trump’s Response
When asked about the concerns, Trump stated the plans have been approved for 100 years and insisted the arch honors veterans. He expressed a desire to bring beauty and prestige back to the country, noting that the arch would surpass the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
Proposed Location and Details
The arch is proposed to be at Memorial Circle on Columbia Island, near Arlington Memorial Bridge. It would stand adjacent to the main entrance of Arlington National Cemetery but not inside it.
The arch aims to celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence. Concerns about altering the area’s landscape and construction disrupting funeral services have been raised by Charles Birnbaum, president of the Cultural Landscape Foundation.
Public feedback is being encouraged ahead of a planned vote by the National Capital Planning Commission, which granted preliminary approval in July but not final approval.
Newsweek has reached out to the White House for comment.