Mini T-Wall mementos of the GWOT

Dublin Core

Title

Mini T-Wall mementos of the GWOT

Subject

Art in Concrete: Mini T-Walls as Symbolic Souvenirs of Resilience

Description

Displayed here are replicas of the iconic T-Wall blast barriers, which served as vital protection for personnel and equipment in forward operating bases during the Global War on Terror. These miniaturized versions offer a glimpse into the unique art and symbolism that emerged in the midst of conflict.

The T-Walls themselves became an unexpected canvas for the artistic expressions of troops deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan. From basic concrete paperweights to personalized mementos, these mini walls carry powerful stories and connections to the experiences of service members.

Often given as gifts for recognition or purchased from local vendors as souvenirs, these mini T-Walls represent more than just trinkets. They embody the resilience, camaraderie, and memories forged during the challenging times of war. Some feature intricate customization, while others bear the signatures of fellow comrades, leaving an indelible mark of unity and remembrance.

As you observe these miniature replicas, take a moment to reflect on the profound symbolism they hold. They serve as reminders of the strength, sacrifice, and shared bonds of those who served in the GWOT. Through these modest objects, we gain insight into the unique ways art emerged as a form of expression and solace in the midst of conflict."

This passage provides a concise introduction that touches upon the significance of mini T-Wall souvenirs, their connection to troop art and graffiti, and the themes of unity, remembrance, and artistic resilience in the context of the GWOT.

Collection Items

Mini T-walls by Polish Army Engineers in Iraq 2023
Al Asad Air Base (AAAB), Iraq 2023
Task Force Minecraft, Polish Army Engineers supporting Operation Inherent Resolve created their own series of mini t-walls.

Lapis Lazul Mini t-wall from FOB Lightning, Paktia Province Eastern Afghanistan
Mini t-wall from FOB Lightning, Paktia Province Eastern Afghanistan made of Lapis Lazul 2018
Photo via @slipaway15 Rob Gordon on IG
End of tour gift from his platoon.

Wanted: photos of souvenir mini t-walls.

We're interested in seeing the…

Mini T-Wall from Bagram 2018
T-wall created at Bagram 2018. The 659th ECC of Task Force Havoc constructed FOB Dahlke-West, and expanded AP Lightning, TB Gamberi, & Duskin for the arrival of the 1st SFAB rotation to arrive in theater.

Via Caity Lynch

Mini wall from Camp Shorabak Helmand Afghanistan 2019
Mini wall from Camp Shorabak (formerly Camp Bastion)- Lash Kargah, Helmand Province Afghanistan 2019
Photo via _s2_fwd_

Mini t-wall from Camp Dahlke Afghanistan 2019
Mini t-wall from Camp Dahlke (formerly FOB Shank) located in Logar Province Afghanistan 2019.

"The TF Arson wall was given to PLs and PSGs from my company commander and 1SG."
- via @andreson2 on IG
3-121 Infantry, 48th Infantry Brigade Combat…

Mini Twall from AP Lightning, Paktia Province Eastern Afghanistan 2019
AP Lightning, Paktia Province Eastern Afghanistan 2019

- via @andreson2 on IG

"Nasty Neal and the boys"

3-121 Infantry, 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Georgia Army National Guard

"The Camp McGill one was made at AP Lightning, seems to…

Spanish Legion Mini twall from Iraq 2016
Mini t-wall from Besmaya Iraq 2016- Spanish Legion

"It is from the first mission of Spain in Besmaya, a few kilometers from Baghdad in 2016, in coalition with the United States of America. General Salom, head of our deployment, gave it to us at…

Signed mini t-wall from Kandahar AF
Mini t-wall from 2014
Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan
Photos via Ski @breachandclear:
" Part of my end of tour award for my 12 month deployment- signed by members of my squad/ battalion."

Mini t-wall from Kandahar Airfield Afghanistan
Wanted: photos of souvenir mini t-walls.

We're interested in seeing the designs and learning more about who made them, where they were sold, sale price or gift, what they're made of, size/ dimensions etc.

Bagram / OEF Mini T-wall via the War Murals Project
Replicas of the T-walls blast barriers that were commonly used on FOBs to protect personnel and equipment and frequently used as concrete canvases for troop art and graffiti. These mini walls came in many forms and were often given to troops as gifts…
View all 10 items