Central MA Honors the Warriors: Veterans & Memorials Tour

Posted: November 11, 2021

The city of Worcester honors the brave veterans who served our country by planting special commemorations around the city. Take a moment of pause to capture a true essence of gratitude displayed by beautifully dedicated memorials in the area.

Imagery from Polly Blog

Citizens of Color Honor Roll

Found at Lincoln Square, the Citizens of Color Honor Roll is a re-creation of an original monument displaying the names of local veterans of color who served during World War II.

Attractions nearby include Crust Artisan Bakeshop and the historic Palladium concert venue, if you’re on the lookout for more in local exploration.

Imagery by Arthur Polaroid on Wordpress

Korean War Memorial

The Korean War Memorial honors the young soldiers from Worcester County who bravely entered the Korean War, for which thousands attended the dedication ceremony in 2003. This memorial sits on the corner of Front and Foster Streets, near Washington Square.

If you find yourself on the lookout for sustenance amid your memorial stroll, grab a bite at delicious Nuovo—right near Washington Square.

Imagery from parkspirit.com

Massachusetts Vietnam War Memorial

Comprising three distinct sections called “Places,” the Massachusetts Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial offers a pond, fountain, walking paths and lovely landscaping—a serene spot to really take in the moment of honor.

Right by here, you’ll also find Green Hill Park & Golf Course, another beautiful Worcester locale to bask in the start-of-summer air.

Imagery from lostnewengland.com

Soldiers’ Monument

The Soldiers’ Monument displays four statues to represent the infantry, artillery, cavalry and navy. Constructed in 1874, this memorial honors the whopping 4,000 soldiers from the city who responded to the Union call during the Civil War.

This one’s located on the Worcester Common, a centered spot at which you’ll find several locally-run attractions. Merely steps from the Soldiers’ Memorial, you’ll find Beer Garden Worcester and Brew on the Grid, with options for every thirsty traveler.

Imagery from Worcester Telegram

Southwest Asia War Memorial

The Southwest Asia War Memorial is the official State monument for veterans of the Southwest Asia War, designated in 1993 on the Worcester Common in loving memory of those who stood bravely in the Desert Shield/Desert Storm conflict.

As another memorial on the Common, there’s plenty to be seen during your tour here. A wonderful spot to discover while in the area is The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts, just a short walk from the Southwest Asia War Memorial.

Imagery from Worcester Memorial Auditorium Blog

Worcester Memorial Auditorium

Built in 1933 as a World War I War memorial in the form of a multi-purpose hall, the Worcester Memorial Auditorium is a multi-purpose arena and “an enduring tribute to those whose sacrifice was sublime.”

For those interested in further Worcester exposure, you’ll find MCPHS University close by, a private university that’s built a rich diversity of healthcare degree programs and educated local healthcare leaders.

Imagery from worcesterma.gov

World War II Memorial at Lake Ave. & Hamilton St.

The World War II Memorial at Lake Ave. and Hamilton St. pays tribute to the “Greatest Generation,” a group of local WWII veterans.

Not far from here, you’ll find Broad Meadow Brook, the largest urban wildlife sanctuary in New England—and a unique spot to continue your day of discovery in Central Mass.

Imagery from massmilitarymonuments.com

World War II Memorial at Worcester Common

Designed by Worcester-based Weston & Sampson Engineering, Inc.—who donated their services to this particular project—the World War II memorial on the Common features a series of water jets and granite piers engraved with the names of Worcester residents who were killed or missing in action during WWII, as well as informational kiosks.

If you decide to stay in the Worcester area after your memorial tour, Homewood Suites is walkable from the Common and ideal for quick trips.

For a full view of these statues, monuments and squares that commemorate our veterans and the wars in which they served, click here for the extended map.