From design to dedication, this nonfiction early chapter book shows how the Vietnam Veterans Memorial was engineered and built. Featuring over 58,000 Vietnam War soldiers' names, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial draws millions of people to its reflective black granite wall each year. Elementary readers will learn why this memorial was built, the controversy over Maya Lin's design, and how it became one of the most visited national monuments in America. A progressive timeline highlights the building sequence, from idea to national landmark. Carefully leveled text and historical photographs inspire future architects and engineers and to support elementary STEM topics. Table of contents, glossary, index, further resources, and author bio are included.