There have been symbolic reparations related to monuments and memorials.

UNESCO: MEDIA SERVICES

That sort of exchange - one of community camaraderie, rather than political innuendo - is not one people expect to hear in Washington DC, a city known more for monuments and memorials than mellow corner bars.

BBC: Neighbourhood spots in the nation's capital

Admission to all memorials and monuments, some of which are staffed with expert guides, is free.

BBC: Berlin��s monuments polarise

Americans gathered at memorials, museums and monuments and the president laid a wreath at Arlington National Cemetery to honor fallen service members on Memorial Day, as combat in Afghanistan approaches 12 years and the ranks of World War II veterans dwindle.

WSJ: Americans gather to honor fallen service members