INTRO: The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier stands as a poignant symbol of sacrifice and honor, dedicated to the service men and women who have given their lives in defense of the United States. Located in Arlington National Cemetery, this revered site has become a focal point for remembrance and respect for all those who have served. Below are ten essential facts that illuminate the significance and history of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
1. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is in Arlington National Cemetery
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is situated in Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia, one of the most hallowed burial grounds in the United States. Established during the Civil War and later dedicated as a national cemetery, Arlington is the final resting place for many American heroes. The Tomb itself is elevated on a hill, providing a commanding view of the cemetery and serving as a backdrop for countless ceremonies and memorials. Its prominent location underscores the importance of honoring those who have sacrificed their lives for the nation.
2. The tomb was dedicated on November 11, 1921, in D.C.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was officially dedicated on November 11, 1921, coinciding with Armistice Day, which marked the end of World War I. The dedication ceremony was attended by numerous dignitaries, including President Warren G. Harding, and was designed to honor all unidentified U.S. service members who had lost their lives in the war. The selection of this date was symbolic, reflecting the desire to remember those who had fallen and the hope for lasting peace following the devastating conflict.
3. It honors unidentified American soldiers from multiple wars
While the original tomb commemorates an unidentified soldier from World War I, it has since evolved to honor American service members from various conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. The remains of unknown soldiers from these wars were interred at the site, emphasizing the tragic reality of soldiers who fell without identification. This inclusive tribute serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals in service to their country across different eras and battles.
4. The Tomb is guarded 24 hours a day, all year round
One of the most notable features of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is that it is guarded 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, by the United States Army’s 3rd Infantry Regiment, known as the Old Guard. This ceremonial unit is tasked with maintaining a vigil over the tomb, symbolizing the nation’s commitment to honoring those who have served. The guards undergo rigorous training to ensure they meet the high standards of precision and decorum required for this prestigious duty, regardless of weather conditions.
5. The guard change ceremony is a precision military display
The changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a highly choreographed ceremony that showcases military precision and discipline. The event, which occurs every hour during the winter and every half hour in the summer, involves a detailed ritual where the outgoing guard passes off responsibility to the incoming guard. The ceremony is steeped in tradition, with specific movements and commands that reflect the dignity and respect owed to the unknown soldiers. It draws numerous visitors who witness this solemn display of honor.
6. The Tomb features a striking sculptural design by Thomas Hudson Jones
The design of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is the work of sculptor Thomas Hudson Jones, who crafted a striking marble structure that embodies both simplicity and grandeur. The tomb itself is made from white marble sourced from the same quarry that supplied materials for the Lincoln Memorial, giving it a connection to other significant American monuments. The design includes a rectangular platform topped with a sarcophagus adorned with intricate carvings, epitomizing the reverence and honor bestowed upon the unidentified soldiers interred within.
7. The tomb’s inscription reads, "Here rests in honored glory"
Inscribed on the tomb is the poignant phrase, "Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God." This inscription serves as a solemn reminder of the anonymity of the fallen, reinforcing the idea that each unknown soldier represents countless lives lost in service to the nation. The phrase captures the essence of sacrifice and the deep respect afforded to those who have served, evoking both somber reflection and reverence from all who visit the site.
8. The Unknown Soldier represents all missing service members
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is not merely a memorial for one unidentified individual; it represents all service members who have gone missing in action or have never returned home. Each soldier, whether from past or present conflicts, is symbolically honored at this site. This universal representation serves to illuminate the broader narrative of loss and sacrifice, reminding visitors of the realities faced by families and communities when loved ones do not return from war.
9. The Tomb has undergone several renovations since its creation
Since its dedication in 1921, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier has undergone several renovations and restorations to maintain its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Notable renovations occurred in the late 1930s and 1990s, when the site was enhanced to better accommodate visitors and preserve the tomb’s historical significance. These efforts have ensured that the tomb remains a lasting tribute to the sacrifices of American soldiers, allowing generations to pay their respects in a dignified setting.
10. Memorial wreaths are laid at the Tomb on special occasions
Throughout the year, memorial wreaths are laid at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier during significant national holidays and observances, such as Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and Independence Day. These ceremonies often include participation from high-ranking officials, military personnel, and various civic organizations, fostering a sense of unity and collective remembrance among attendees. The laying of wreaths serves as a powerful visual tribute, reinforcing the importance of honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
OUTRO: The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier remains a powerful emblem of sacrifice, honor, and remembrance within American society. Through its enduring presence and the solemn rituals that accompany it, the Tomb serves not only as a memorial for unidentified soldiers but also as a poignant reminder of the collective duty to remember and honor all those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. As visitors continue to reflect on the sacrifices made by these brave individuals, the Tomb will forever stand as a symbol of national gratitude and respect.