How Many Veterans are Buried at Arlington National Cemetery?
Arlington National Cemetery, located in Arlington, Virginia, is one of the most revered and sacred places in the United States. Established in 1864, the cemetery has served as the final resting place for many American heroes, including presidents, astronauts, and Medal of Honor recipients. But just how many veterans are buried at Arlington National Cemetery?
A Brief History
Arlington National Cemetery was created during the Civil War to honor the Union dead. Initially, the cemetery was used to bury the bodies of soldiers who died in the war, including President John F. Kennedy. Over time, the cemetery has expanded to include sections for other conflicts, such as World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.
Number of Veterans Buried at Arlington National Cemetery
According to the United States Department of the Army, as of 2022, there are more than 400,000 veterans buried at Arlington National Cemetery. This number includes:
- Over 150,000 World War II veterans
- Over 100,000 Korean War veterans
- Over 50,000 Vietnam War veterans
- Over 20,000 Gulf War veterans
- Over 10,000 veterans from the War on Terror
Here is a breakdown of the number of veterans buried at Arlington National Cemetery by war:
| War | Number of Veterans Buried |
|---|---|
| World War II | 150,000+ |
| Korean War | 100,000+ |
| Vietnam War | 50,000+ |
| Gulf War | 20,000+ |
| War on Terror | 10,000+ |
Notable Veterans Buried at Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery is home to many notable veterans, including:
- President John F. Kennedy: The 35th President of the United States, who was assassinated in 1963.
- General Douglas MacArthur: A five-star general and one of the most iconic military leaders in American history.
- General James Mattis: A four-star general and former Secretary of Defense.
- Sergeant Audie Murphy: A Medal of Honor recipient and one of the most decorated soldiers in World War II.
- Lieutenant Michael Murphy: A Medal of Honor recipient and Navy SEAL who was killed in action in Afghanistan.
Interesting Facts about Arlington National Cemetery
- Over 300,000 people visit Arlington National Cemetery each year.
- The cemetery is home to over 7,000 grave markers and memorials.
- The cemetery is situated on 624 acres of land.
- The cemetery has a dedicated team of 1,000 volunteers who help maintain the grounds.
- The cemetery is the final resting place for many notable figures, including astronauts, politicians, and business leaders.
Conclusion
Arlington National Cemetery is a sacred place that honors the sacrifices of American veterans. With over 400,000 veterans buried on its grounds, it is a testament to the bravery and selflessness of those who have served our country. Whether you are a veteran yourself or simply a patriotic American, Arlington National Cemetery is a place that inspires reverence and gratitude.
