Pay your respects at the gravesites in Arlington National Cemetery

Pay your respects at the gravesites in Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery is a somber and revered destination in Washington, D.C. It is a place to pay homage to those who have served and sacrificed for our country. It is also one of the most recognizable and respected national cemeteries in the United States. Here are some of the things you can do when visiting the gravesites at Arlington National Cemetery.

Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

One of the most iconic and respected monuments at Arlington National Cemetery is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This monument is dedicated to the memory of unidentified American soldiers who lost their lives serving the nation. It is guarded 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and the changing of the guard is a moving and reverent ceremony that visitors should not miss.

Pay Your Respects at Famous Gravesites

Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place for many notable figures in American history, including President John F. Kennedy and his family, civil rights activist Medgar Evers, and astronaut Alan Shepard. Visitors can pay their respects at these famous gravesites and learn more about the contributions of these historical figures.

Take a Guided Tour

To fully appreciate the history and significance of Arlington National Cemetery, consider taking a guided tour. The cemetery offers a variety of guided tours, including walking tours, bus tours, and tram tours. These tours provide visitors with a more in-depth understanding of the cemetery’s history, architecture, and significance.

Attend a Memorial Service

Arlington National Cemetery hosts a variety of memorial services throughout the year, including the Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies. Attending one of these events is a moving and meaningful way to pay tribute to those who have served our country and made the ultimate sacrifice.

Witness the Changing of the Guard

The Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a solemn and precise ceremony that takes place every hour on the hour from April 1 through September 30 and every two hours during the rest of the year. Visitors can witness this ceremony and pay their respects to those who have served and sacrificed for our country.

Explore the Cemetery Grounds

The cemetery grounds at Arlington National Cemetery are vast and sprawling, covering more than 600 acres. Visitors can explore the grounds on foot or by car, taking in the peaceful and serene surroundings. The cemetery is also home to several memorials and monuments, including the Women in Military Service for America Memorial and the Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial.

Participate in Wreath-Laying Ceremonies

Arlington National Cemetery offers visitors the opportunity to participate in wreath-laying ceremonies. These ceremonies are a way to honor the memory of those who have served our country and made the ultimate sacrifice. Visitors can purchase wreaths and participate in a solemn ceremony, laying the wreath at the gravesite of a fallen soldier.

In conclusion, Arlington National Cemetery is a revered and important destination for visitors to pay their respects to those who have served and sacrificed for our country. Whether attending a memorial service, taking a guided tour, or paying respects at famous gravesites, there are many ways to honor the memory of those buried at Arlington National Cemetery. So, if you are in the Washington, D.C. area, consider visiting this national treasure and paying your respects to those who have served our country.