The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a monument located at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia, that honors unidentified remains of American service members who have died in combat. The tomb is guarded 24/7 by a changing of the guard ceremony that takes place every 30 minutes, and it has been a symbol of American military honor and sacrifice since its dedication in 1921.
History of the Tomb
The idea of a tomb for unknown soldiers began after World War I, when thousands of American soldiers were missing in action. In 1921, a group of unknown soldiers from World War I were brought to Arlington National Cemetery and buried in a series of crypts beneath the tomb. The crypts were designed to be a temporary measure until the soldiers could be identified, but as the years went by, it became clear that many of the remains would never be identified.
The Changing of the Guard
The changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is one of the most iconic and respected traditions in American military history. Every 30 minutes, a new sentinel is brought to the tomb and replaces the previous guard. The sentinel is a highly trained member of the 3rd United States Infantry Regiment, and they are responsible for standing watch over the tomb 24/7.
The Unknown Soldiers
The unknown soldiers buried at the tomb are a group of unidentified remains from World War I, World War II, and the Korean War. The remains were brought to Arlington National Cemetery in the years following each war, and they were interred in the crypts beneath the tomb. The remains are believed to be from soldiers who died in combat and were never identified or recovered.
Preservation and Maintenance
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a highly maintained and preserved monument. The crypts beneath the tomb are kept at a consistent temperature and humidity level to preserve the remains. The tomb itself is made of white marble, and it is surrounded by a small chapel and a memorial wall. The changing of the guard ceremony is also closely monitored and maintained to ensure that it continues to be a respected and meaningful tradition.
Impact and Significance
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier has had a significant impact on American military culture and history. The tomb is a symbol of American military honor and sacrifice, and it is a reminder of the service and bravery of American soldiers who have died in combat. The changing of the guard ceremony has also become a highly respected tradition, and it is watched by millions of people around the world each year.
Facts and Figures
- The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is guarded 24/7 by a changing of the guard ceremony that takes place every 30 minutes.
- The unknown soldiers buried at the tomb are from World War I, World War II, and the Korean War.
- The remains are believed to be from soldiers who died in combat and were never identified or recovered.
- The tomb is made of white marble and is surrounded by a small chapel and a memorial wall.
- The changing of the guard ceremony has been watched by millions of people around the world each year.
Visiting the Tomb
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is open to visitors 365 days a year. Visitors can watch the changing of the guard ceremony from a designated viewing area, and they can also visit the small chapel and memorial wall that surround the tomb. The cemetery is located near the Pentagon, and it is easily accessible by car or public transportation.
