Floyd Goes to Washington

Paul, Emily, my mom and I were honored to escort one of the proudest WWII Veterans we know - Floyd Stellmacher - to Washington DC a few weeks ago for his long awaited visit to the WWII Memorial on Washington DC's National Mall.


When Japan bombed Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, Floyd Stellmacher was only 17 years old. After turning 18 and graduating high school, Floyd enlisted in the US Army and dreamt of driving tanks. Luckily, Floyd didn't realize his dream of driving tanks, but rather he worked on Tank Recovery in the European Theatre. Why do I saw luckily? Floyd told us in DC that the Germans decimated the 9th Armored Division (his Division) during the Battle of the Bulge. I think Floyd realizes that he was lucky to have not been driving any tanks while overseas!


Most of you probably know who Floyd is, but if you don't, let me tell you. He's a father, (my) grandfather, great-grandfather, and finally, he is a VERY proud WWII Veteran.


Paul and I were so honored to witness him seeing the WWII Memorial for the first time. We saw the Memorial with Grandpa three times, twice at night and once during the day. It was such a neat experience to see strangers thank my Grandpa for his service. My heart swelled with love and pride every time someone thanked him.


At last - the WWII Memorial


Explaining the bas reliefts at the Memorial that tell the story of WWII, both the Atlantic and Pacific Theatres.



The relief that depicted the Battle of the Bulge.

The Atlantic Arch

There are 56 pillars representing each state and territory that sent soliders to war. Ironically, the Wisconsin pillar is right next to the Atlantic Arch.

Grandpa checking out the Freedom Wall. There are 4,048 gold stars, each star representing 100 Americans who died in the war.

Grandpa talking to a volunteer who was interested in Grandpa's Service and hearing Grandpa's stories.

Looking at the WWII Memorial with the Lincoln Memorial in the distance.

There are two "Kilroys" at the Memorial. The rumor is that no one is sure how they got there.

A quote by the fountain under the Atlantic Arch. Around the base of the fountain, many of the key battles are listed. Two of them are of great pride for my Grandpa since the 9th Armored participated in those battles - the Battle of the Bulge and Remagen Bridge.