The Arts of War Sculptures

A group of sculptures erected in 1951 mark the entrance to Rock Creek and Potomac Parkway. Named "Valor" and "Sacrifice," the sculptures were created by Leo Friedlander in the "Delayed Deco" style and depict Mars, the Roman god of war, on horseback. The casting of the statues was done in Italy, a gift by then prime minister Alcide De Gasperi in gratitude for the assistance the U.S. provided to help rebuild his country after World War II. (Submitted by Victoria Medina)