These forms have been inspired by ancient standing stones or monoliths and by classical stelae. Forms such as these have always marked sacred sites, symbolising spaces for commemoration and contemplation. Such sites remain among the most enduring and powerful of human creations. These great stones stand in a shallow cordon in a shallow moat, protection against the bustle of the outside world. The corners of each pair of stelae are open, inviting entry and providing a passage into the interior.
Access is gained through the main entry ramp and by the side stairs and ramps.
From Anzac Parade the open corners allow glimpses of the interior, enhancing the desire to stop, walk up the ceremonial ramp, to enter, to contemplate, appreciate and remember. The interior space is the dramatic centre of the memorial. Here, directly representational images are united with abstract symbolism to convey a series of comprehensive interpretations and memories of the war. Stele B, the northern or right-hand stele is adorned with a series of 33 quotations fixed in stainless steel lettering. The quotations have been selected from the unique operations language developed in Vietnam, from the letters and other writings of service personnel and from other public documents containing typical responses to the War.