SEABEE and USMC Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery

Did you know the world famous USMC Memorial in Arlington National Cemetery was sculped by a former SEABEE, Felix de Weldon, who also sculpted the SEABEE Memorial at Arlington? The workwas done by Mr. de Weldon. The SEABEE Memorial has a number of large panels depicting the many missions that SEABEES have undertaken around the world, in war and peace since 1942. At the focal point of the back panels is a large sculpture depicting a bare-chested, muscular SEABEE, rifle slung over one shoulder, offering a helping hand to a small child. The panels and sculptured figures together perfectly symbolize the nature of U. S. Navy SEABEES as Builders who Fight, and who also extend humanitarian aid wherever and whenever needed.

Inscriptions in golden letters proudly proclaim in words the messages which the panels and figures convey visually. They are: "SEABEES CAN DO " above the panels, and "With willing hearts and skillful hands, the difficult we do at once.The impossible takes a bit longer! ", below the panels. On the base which supports the SEABEE and child sculpture is inscribed: "With compassion for others, we build, we fight for peace with freedom."