The design of the Perry Hall Veterans Memorial meets two major design criteria: high visibility to the public and privacy for contemplation and remembrance.  While the location of the memorial near the monumental Gough Park sign at the busy intersection of Joppa Road and Honeygo Boulevard makes the memorial visible to many area residents on a daily basis, the design layout provides a terminal focal point with only one means of access so the heart of the memorial becomes a destination and culmination of intent for visitors.
The memorial’s linear design derives from spatial availability in this corner of Gough Park.  Nestled between the existing gazebo, a handful of existing trees, and the property line, the broad promenade is based on the concept of a military procession.  The brick and concrete construction honors the strong tradition of brick in the architectural history of the Baltimore region.  Access to the promenade is provided via a grand brick and iron gateway, serving as a threshold signifying the entrance into a space separate and distinct from the existing park.  While a special, separate area designated for the POW/ MIA flag is a traditional feature in many veterans memorials, the unique layout of Perry Hall’s POW/ MIA area of reflection was inspired by the missing man formation in aviation.
The circular design of the heart of the memorial is comparable to similar memorials throughout the United States.  In the Perry Hall memorial, the circular layout is separated into rings for various uses.  A ring of low annual plantings separates the more private outer ring with seating for contemplation from a wider, more public inner ring with informational walls to educate visitors on the local history of the military.  Throughout the memorial, the design utilizes an understanding of ceremony, pride, and formality to provide a personal, meaningful space for honoring those men and women who have fought for our country.


American-led intervention in Iraq
(2014–2021)
Iraq War
(2003–2011)
War in Afghanistan
(2001–2021)
Gulf War
(1990–1991)
Vietnam War
Korean Conflict
World War II
(1939–1945, direct U.S. involvement in 1941–1945)
World War I
(1914–1918, direct U.S. involvement in 1917–1918)
 

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