Designing the Lighting Plan
Before installation could begin, the team needed to develop a comprehensive lighting plan. The main objectives included:
- Highlighting the Jets with Precision – Ensuring that each aircraft was properly illuminated from multiple angles to showcase its form, structure, and details.
- Enhancing Visibility Without Overpowering – Balancing the intensity of the lighting to make the jets stand out without overwhelming visitors with glare.
- Creating a Dramatic Yet Respectful Effect – Using light to enhance the nighttime aesthetics of the memorial while maintaining the solemn and honorable tone of the site.
- Minimizing Light Pollution and Energy Consumption – Implementing efficient and strategic lighting placements to achieve the desired impact while being environmentally responsible.
To achieve these goals, the team selected a combination of LED floodlights, spotlights, and in-ground fixtures. LED technology was chosen for its durability, efficiency, and ability to provide crisp, clear illumination with minimal maintenance.
Execution and Installation
Dobson Electric, a trusted electrical contractor, managed the power distribution and wiring, ensuring that the lighting system was installed with precision. ASI Lighting provided the high-quality fixtures needed to bring the project to life.
Key steps in the installation process included:
- Strategic Fixture Placement – Lights were positioned at optimal distances and angles to prevent harsh shadows and ensure even illumination across the aircraft surfaces.
- Testing and Adjustments – After the initial installation, the team conducted nighttime evaluations to fine-tune the placement, brightness levels, and beam angles.
- Weatherproofing and Protection – Given the outdoor nature of the installation, all lighting fixtures were designed to withstand the elements, ensuring longevity and reliability.
- Integration with Existing Memorial Elements – The lighting was carefully incorporated into the overall memorial landscape to complement other features without detracting from the solemn nature of the site.
One of the standout aspects of this project was the customized lighting angles that allowed the jets to appear as if they were dramatically suspended in motion, enhancing their visual impact against the night sky.
The Final Impact
Once completed, the lighting transformation was remarkable. The jets, previously difficult to appreciate after dark, now stood as illuminated symbols of bravery and sacrifice. Visitors could experience the full grandeur of these aircraft at any time of day, with the lighting creating an awe-inspiring and deeply respectful atmosphere.
The project was a testament to the power of thoughtful lighting design. Thanks to the expertise of Clayton Rix, Dobson Electric, and ASI Lighting, the POW MIA Memorial now features an installation that ensures these jets remain a striking focal point of the site—day and night.