Pennsylvania Railroad World War II Memorial

The Pennsylvania Railroad World War II Memorial is a bronze sculpture in the main concourse of 30th Street Station that depicts an angel lifting a soldier from flames. The figure stands beneath tall columns in a space where natural light from above illuminates the work and highlights its details.

The memorial was unveiled in 1952 and honors over 1,300 railroad employees who died during World War II. The artist who created it served during the war in a special unit dedicated to protecting artworks from destruction.

The sculpture depicts the Archangel Michael, a symbol that carries deep religious meaning for visitors reflecting on sacrifice and redemption. This imagery creates a moment of quiet reflection in the bustling train station, where people naturally pause to acknowledge the memorial.

The memorial sits in the main hall of the train station where trains arrive and depart, making it easy to access during a visit. Visitors should allow quiet moments to read the inscriptions and examine details, especially when the station is crowded.

The sculptor was not only an artist but also a soldier who rescued artworks during the war, giving this work a personal connection to the subject matter. This dual role makes the memorial more than a simple remembrance of the fallen.

Location: Philadelphia

Inception: August 10, 1952

Creator: Walker Hancock

Made from material: bronze

GPS coordinates: 39.95566,-75.18152

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:59