Nucor Announces Historic Donation for Global War on Terrorism Memorial

In October of 2023, Nucor and the Nucor Charitable Foundation proudly revealed a donation of $2.5 million to the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation.

The gift, which includes the steel that will be required to construct the Global War on Terrorism Memorial, was announced during With Honor Action's biennial dinner, attended by over 200 distinguished individuals, including nearly 30 bipartisan veterans serving in Congress. When complete, the Global War on Terrorism Memorial will stand as a testament to those who have sacrificed for our nation in a prominent location between the Lincoln Memorial and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on the iconic National Mall.

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For more than two decades, over two million Americans have served in the Global War on Terrorism, spanning the globe in defense of freedom. Tragically, over 7,000 American service members have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The Global War on Terrorism Memorial will not only honor their service but also pay tribute to their families and all those who have safeguarded our liberties throughout this complex, multi-generational conflict.

The journey to establish a Global War on Terrorism Memorial began in 2016 when legislation for its creation was first introduced in Congress. Following tireless advocacy efforts, particularly by the bipartisan For Country Caucus of veterans in the U.S. House and Senate, Congress authorized the Memorial's creation in 2021, granting permission for its construction on the Reserve portion of the National Mall.

On behalf of the entire Nucor family, Nucor’s President and CEO, Leon Topalian stated, “We are honored to show our gratitude and respect to the brave men and women of our country who have served in the Global War on Terrorism and their families. We are grateful to the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation and our friends in the For Country Caucus for their inclusive vision and the opportunity to play a role in this effort. We hope tonight’s announcement brings greater awareness and support to this admirable project.”

Michael “Rod” Rodriguez, President and CEO of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation acknowledged the Nucor gift as the largest single gift in the organization’s history. As a retired Army Green Beret with ten combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, Rodriguez emphasized the significance of American-made Nucor steel in embodying the strength and resilience of the heroes who have served and sacrificed in the Global War on Terrorism.

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In March 2024 Leon Topalian joined the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation Board of Directors.

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