Veterans Oppose Trump’s Proposed Triumphal Arch Near Arlington

Veterans are actively opposing President Donald Trump’s proposal for a 250-foot triumphal arch near Arlington National Cemetery, aiming to halt the project’s commencement less than two weeks before scheduled excavation. The arch is part of several construction projects initiated by the Trump administration to renovate parts of Washington. Trump asserted the arch would honor veterans, dubbing it the ‘Triumphal Arch.’

‘It’s called the Triumphal Arch. It’s in honor of the veterans,’ Trump stated.

Concerns About the Triumphal Arch

VoteVets, a Democratic veterans organization, released a video featuring veterans and Gold Star families voicing concerns about the potential impact on Arlington National Cemetery. The organization emphasized the importance of preserving the sacred burial ground.

Retired Army Major General Paul Eaton, whose father was killed in Vietnam and buried at Arlington, expressed fears over the arch’s placement, which may disrupt sight lines between the Lincoln Memorial and the cemetery. Eaton deemed the project’s proposed placement ‘entirely inappropriate’ and ‘bordering on sacrilege.’

Legal Challenges and Construction Status

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum announced on September 3 that excavation work for the Great Triumphal Arch and Military Observation Deck at Memorial Circle will start within two weeks. Burgum highlighted it as ‘one of the Great Pieces of American Architecture,’ intended to honor Arlington Cemetery’s historical significance.

On September 4, Vietnam War veterans and an architectural historian sought an emergency court order to halt the work. They argued that congressional approval is mandatory before proceeding. The lawsuit claimed the construction would destroy the unobstructed view and symbolic connection to the Lincoln Memorial.

Democratic Representative Chellie Pingree urged House Speaker Mike Johnson to file a lawsuit, asserting Congress hasn’t granted funding or authority for the project under the Commemorative Works Act.

Trump’s Remarks on the Arch

In April, Trump addressed concerns that the proposed arch might obstruct views between Arlington Cemetery and the Lincoln Memorial.

‘You got to be kidding,’ Trump remarked. ‘This was approved 100 years ago,’ citing earlier plans for monumental structures that were never realized.

Trump emphasized veterans should appreciate the arch, part of efforts to restore ‘glamour,’ ‘prestige,’ and ‘beauty’ nationwide. He mentioned the arch would surpass the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, calling the Paris monument ‘incredible.’

Location and Design

The proposed arch’s location is Memorial Circle on Columbia Island, between Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery’s main entrance.

Designed to celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence, the arch’s monumental gateway would rise 250 feet, potentially altering the cemetery’s surroundings, according to Charles Birnbaum of the Cultural Landscape Foundation. The construction plan mentions work possibly lasting for three years, disrupting the cemetery’s daily burial process.

The National Capital Planning Commission granted preliminary approval in July, yet final approval remains pending. The public is encouraged to express opinions by the end of September.