On a circular platform suspended over Lake Pierre at the State Capitol stand six life-sized bronze statues representing the six branches of service active during World War II.

The soldiers look toward a granite obelisk emerging from a small pool fed by a geothermal stream. The obelisk bears an inscription honoring South Dakotans' contribution to the war effort.

Each year of the war, 1941-1945, is marked by an illuminated granite and glass bollard designed to take viewers back in time to experience the Memorial. 20,000 people attended the memorials dedication.

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