The Pentagon is not just a building, but a symbol of American military power and resilience. Its unique design and history make it a must-see landmark for anyone visiting Washington D. C. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by our military and the importance of protecting our nation.
When was the Pentagon built?
The construction of the Pentagon began on September 11, 1941, and it was completed in just 16 months.This was an impressive feat considering the size and complexity of the building. The Pentagon was built during a time of great uncertainty and fear, as World War II was raging on and the United States was preparing to enter the war. The location for the Pentagon was carefully chosen by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and his advisors. They wanted a site that was close to Washington D.
C., but also far enough away to protect it from potential attacks. The site they chose was in Arlington, Virginia, just across the Potomac River from the nation's capital.
What is the purpose of the Pentagon?
The primary purpose of the Pentagon is to serve as the headquarters for the United States Department of Defense. It houses offices for all branches of the military, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines. The building also serves as a command center for military operations and houses top military officials. Aside from its practical purposes, the Pentagon also serves as a symbol of American military might.Its unique shape and massive size make it instantly recognizable, and it has become a symbol of strength and power for the United States.
The design and construction of the Pentagon
The design of the Pentagon was a collaborative effort between architect George Bergstrom and a team of engineers from the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers. The building was designed to be both functional and secure, with reinforced concrete walls and blast-resistant windows. The Pentagon is divided into five concentric rings, with each ring representing a different branch of the military.The innermost ring is reserved for top military officials, while the outer rings house offices and meeting rooms for lower-ranking personnel. The construction of the Pentagon was a massive undertaking, with over 13,000 workers involved in the project. The building covers over 6 million square feet and has over 17 miles of corridors. It was built using over 435,000 cubic yards of concrete and 41,492 windows.
The Pentagon after 9/11
On September 11, 2001, the Pentagon was the target of a terrorist attack when a hijacked plane crashed into its western side. The attack resulted in the deaths of 184 people, including passengers on the plane and military personnel inside the building. The damage caused by the attack was extensive, but the Pentagon was quickly repaired and reinforced to prevent future attacks.Today, visitors can still see the scars left by the attack on the building's exterior.