The spirit and goal of the competition was to create a lasting physical memorial to honor Connecticut veterans past, present, and future. The design is to serve as a focal point and significant icon which illustrates the high regard, respect and esteem the citizens of Connecticut have for the men and women who have defended the rights and freedoms so cherished by this Nation. The memorial will provide a place of honor and tribute for the men and women who have served and are serving in the Armed Forces of the United States. This will establish a central site for the State of Connecticut to conduct official observances, activities, and ceremonies to honor veterans, including on Memorial Day and Veterans Day.

Towers|Golde's entry for the Memorial is both a destination and a pilgrimage for visitors: a journey of the mind that transports visitors from their private world and surrenders their thoughts to the solemnity of the moment; a journey that enables them to embrace the stories and reflect on the struggles of the many individuals who have given of themselves to defend and secure the American way of life; a memorial where visitors leave with a deep appreciation, understanding, gratitude and pride of friends, neighbors and family members who have served our state and nation with great dedication and personal sacrifice.