The sometimes controversial decision to place the memorial on the National Mall, was resolved on September 21, when the National Capital Planning Commission voted 7 to 5 to approve the design. Debate centered over the location of the memorial which lays between the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial. The site, at the head of the reflecting pool, was chosen by President Clinton selected despite objections from some who feel it will interfere with the views of the existing memorials. The design had already received the approval of the Commission on Fine Arts in July.

The site was dedicated by President Clinton on Veterans day, 1995. The prominent location at the Rainbow Pool on the east end of the Reflecting Pool is in keeping with the historic significance of the memorial, supporters say. The design of 56 pillars and a pool surrounding a sunken plaza is the work of

architect Friedrich St. Florian and stands 15 feet tall. A wall of gold stars represents those killed in the war and twin fountains will send jets of water into the air.

A national fund-raising campaign has already secured contributions of $92 million toward the estimated $100 million needed. Major contributions from corporations such as Walmart which pledged $14.1 million, fraternal organizations such as the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks ($1.1 million) and Knights of Columbus ($500,000) as well a numerous Veterans organizations and private citizens continue to be received. Leading the fund raising campaign is Senator Bob Dole and FedEx CEO Frederick W. Smith. Actor/director Tom Hanks has made two public service announcements to help with the fundraising efforts, according to the National Committee.