The Memorial Chapel is a constant reminder that an individual’s development in physical and mental stature is incomplete without parallel growth in qualities of the spirit, because the spirit governs motives and actions. The truth must be proclaimed as Virginia Tech grows in enrollment and expanded activities. Thousands of former students who learned this lesson in their youth gave generously over a fifteen-year period to plan and erect this monument. They saw the need for a tangible expression of their Alma Mater’s intangible spirit. Their vision was that the Memorial would associate the personalities of our war dead with spiritual qualities impressed on them in student days.

To carry out this idea, the Memorial has two parts at different levels. The foundation level is the Chapel, opening onto the drill field. The upper level is Memorial Court, terminus for the Mall. The two levels are connected by walkways and steps.

Through the ages man has sought the Divine. The Chapel recognizes this aspiration. It is a place for meditation and worship, to serve all who believe in God. Its permanent features avoid creedal symbolism that might offend any faith, yet any group may use appropriate furnishings in its worship. Thus, the Chapel, at this lower level, illustrates the axiom that God is the foundation on which to build a useful and full life.

The walkways and steps leading from the Chapel to Memorial Court have their own significance. They represent the path to be followed in life, ever climbing toward the goal of service in God’s plan.

Memorial Court grows out of the Chapel. Its eight massive pylons, reaching upward, represent stability and aspiration. They carry the names of our war dead and on each is a sculpted figure. Between the last two pylons is a cenotaph—a monument honoring those buried elsewhere. Carved in the top step of the court are the words “THAT I MAY SERVE,” a free translation of the Latin motto, “UT Prosim.”