renaeb1
This memorial is well thought out and well maintained by volunteers from the heartland of America. While visiting, I heard folks comment that it should be located in Washington DC, but I would argue that the perfect place for this memorial is right where it is. The village of Marsailles is a very friendly town that reflects the values that these American's have fought and died to protect. When you visit the memorial, take some time to stroll along main street and talk to the people you will meet on the street and in the shops and cafes. You will be glad that you did.
PattiG350
This is something worth seeing the place leaves you in AWE! even if you know no one on this wall it will leave you in tears, such a moving place.
sallyr399
The feeling of peace was palpable at the Wall. With the Illinois River flowing behind, this location is a peaceful place to pay your respects and have reflection. Well worth the stop.
GrayMare42
19 America Legion Riders on 10 bikes visited last Sunday in June. We had heard about it, still was suprised at the beauty and peaceful site. Grandparents of a soldier killed in Afghanstan was us, we found and traced his name. We learned too late about the colored lights at night so make another trip this fall.
tommysmommy81
If you know someone who was in the Iraq or Afghanistan wars, who is currently deployed or anyone who served in the military since 2000, you really need to get to this amazing monument and spend time there. Beautiful, tranquil setting and the sheer volume of names of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice reminds us all of the real cost of war in any century.
cachincolegroves
anything honoring the men and women who serve this country it well worth seeing.
DarryllT
As nice as anything you will see in Washington D.C. or any other place. Great setting along the falls of the Illinois River, with the names of all U.S. service members that died during conflicts around the globe the last 25 years. You will be moved when you see all the names or when you stop in the lobby and see the memorabilia friends and family members have left for their loved ones.
Lorraine7
I stop by here to pay my respects at the Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial to those servicemen and servicewomen who lost their lives paying for our freedoms in America. The granite stones with the names on them are very thought- provoking as you move along to each one. Several of the stones had personal items left behind from those named heros that made it more intimate and painful.As a parent of a daughter presently in the Air Force, looking at the engraved names never fails to bring tears asi I do live nearby and come here occasionally. I think of all those parents who have lost their children whose names are listed. There is seating available. The location is south off I-80 at the Illinois 97 mile marker and then located at the south end of Marseilles, Illinois on the west side of the road next to the river. It is a very moving and solemn experience.
sun2day
We stumbled upon this memorial somewhat on accident while driving from central Illinois toward home in the SW Chicago suburbs. The onsite museum was closed for the night, but a caretaker was very informative and proud of the additions and improvements to the memorial. He also pointed out some of the moving personal mementos that the families of the fallen leave when they visit. The Illinois River rapids directly behind the memorial wall add to the serenity and solemnity of the site, but the sound of the river seems to remind you that life, indeed, does go on. I hope to go back soon to tour the museum.