A stunning new memorial is being built that will stand as a testament to all U.S. veterans who risked their lives to protect America’s freedom.
Known as the National Memorial of Military Ascent (NMMA), it is set to open by 2026 in Grafton, Illinois.
Its centerpiece will depict statues of U.S. Army Rangers scaling the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River. This is a tribute to the rangers who climbed the Pointe du Hoc cliffs on Omaha Beach on D-Day.
Renowned attorney and U.S. Army veteran John Simmons recently made a significant $2.5 million donation to the NMMA.
John founded the Mesothelioma Veterans Center’s partner law firm Simmons Hanly Conroy and has spent decades advocating for veterans with mesothelioma, a rare cancer caused by asbestos exposure.
“I am proud to support this project and to help create a lasting tribute for veterans and their families.”
– John Simmons, mesothelioma attorney and U.S. Army veteran
Learn more about this remarkable new memorial complex below.
Key Features of the National Memorial of Military Ascent
From an impressive recreation of American history along the Mississippi River to an interactive museum that teaches visitors about D-Day, the NMMA will offer compelling experiences for the whole family.
The memorial’s main attraction will be life-size bronze statues of the U.S. Army Rangers scaling limestone bluffs. This honors the Army Rangers who served on D-Day in World War II.
On June 6, 1944, three companies of U.S. Army Rangers were dropped off at the base of the cliffs of Pointe du Hoc. Under enemy fire, the rangers summited the cliffs, and after two days of non-stop fighting, 90 of the men were left standing.
The NMMA will also feature:
- An interactive museum immersing visitors in the sights and sounds of D-Day
- Educational resources
- Dedicated ceremonial areas
- Places for reflection
After it opens on the anniversary of D-Day in 2026, the NMMA is expected to draw 1 million visitors annually.
Mesothelioma Attorney John Simmons Supports the NMMA and U.S. Veterans
The NMMA is a non-profit funded entirely by donations from the community. One key donor and a co-chair of the project is renowned mesothelioma attorney John Simmons.
A veteran of the U.S. Army, John has been giving back to the veteran community for decades. In 1999, he founded Illinois-based law firm Simmons Hanly Conroy, which has risen to national prominence in helping veterans and civilians affected by mesothelioma.
Roughly one-third of mesothelioma patients are U.S. veterans. By working with the firm, thousands of patients have gotten compensation to pay for treatments and protect their family’s future.
Under John’s leadership, Simmons Hanly Conroy — the legal partner of the Mesothelioma Veterans Center — has recovered $9.6 billion in mesothelioma compensation for patients, including many U.S. veterans.
Outside of the firm, John has continued to give back to organizations that support U.S. veterans and civilians fighting this cancer. His recent donation to the NMMA reflects his steadfast commitment to U.S. veterans.
“When you think about other projects like this, they’re in D.C. Most people aren’t going to get to D.C. to see it.”
– John Simmons, mesothelioma attorney and U.S. Army veteran
Simmons Hanly Conroy may be able to help you or a veteran you love secure compensation after a mesothelioma diagnosis. Get a Free Case Review now to learn more.
Honoring and Helping U.S. Veterans Every Day
When it opens in 2026, consider taking a trip with your family to see the remarkable National Memorial of Military Ascent complex.
The NMMA will serve as a strong reminder of the sacrifices all U.S. veterans made and ensure that their place in history will never be forgotten.
Simmons Hanly Conroy and the Mesothelioma Veterans Center also stand ready to help U.S. veterans with mesothelioma pursue justice after a diagnosis.
Call at (877) 450-8973 or get a Free Veterans Packet to learn how we can help you or someone you love access military benefits, treatments, and legal compensation now.
