Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Explore the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

If you’re visiting the Washington, D.C. area, a must-see attraction is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier located in Arlington National Cemetery. This national shrine is a solemn and respectful tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country.

Tribute to Unidentified Heroes

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a monument dedicated to the memory of unidentified soldiers who have given their lives for their country. The tomb itself is made of white marble and rests atop a hill overlooking Washington, D.C. It is guarded 24 hours a day, 365 days a year by the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, also known as the “Old Guard.”

Witness the Changing of the Guard Ceremony

Visitors to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier can witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place every hour on the hour from October 1st through March 31st, and every half hour from April 1st through September 30th. During the ceremony, the guard marches 21 steps in front of the tomb, representing the 21-gun salute, then pauses for 21 seconds before marching back. This ritual is carried out with precision and discipline and is a moving tribute to those who have given their lives in service to their country.

Pay Respects at Arlington National Cemetery

In addition to witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony, visitors can also pay their respects at the gravesites of the many soldiers buried at Arlington National Cemetery. This hallowed ground is the final resting place of over 400,000 men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Among the gravesites are those of Presidents John F. Kennedy and William Howard Taft, as well as numerous Medal of Honor recipients.

Guided Tours for Deeper Insight

For those interested in learning more about the history and significance of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Arlington National Cemetery, guided tours are available. These tours provide in-depth information about the monuments, memorials, and gravesites, and offer visitors the opportunity to learn about the sacrifices made by the men and women who have served their country.

Witness the Poignant Wreath-Laying Ceremony

One of the most poignant and emotional parts of any visit to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is witnessing the wreath-laying ceremony. This ceremony takes place several times a year and involves the laying of a wreath at the tomb by the President of the United States or a high-ranking military official. The ceremony is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have served their country and is a tribute to their memory and legacy.

Explore Other Memorials and Monuments

In addition to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington National Cemetery is also home to numerous other memorials and monuments, including the Women in Military Service for America Memorial, the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial (also known as the Iwo Jima Memorial), and the Arlington House, the former home of Robert E. Lee.

Visiting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Arlington National Cemetery is an important and meaningful experience, offering visitors the opportunity to pay their respects to those who have given their lives in service to their country. With its rich history and powerful symbolism, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a national treasure and a moving tribute to the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice.