What is in the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a monument dedicated to the unidentified remains of fallen soldiers from various countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and France. The tomb is a symbol of respect, gratitude, and remembrance for the sacrifices made by these brave men and women who gave their lives in service to their countries. In this article, we will delve into the details of what lies within the tomb and explore the significance of this sacred site.
The Unknown Soldier: Who is it?
The Unknown Soldier is the remains of an unidentified American service member who died during World War I. In 1921, the United States government declared that a tomb would be built to honor the unknown soldier, and a ceremony was held to rebury the remains in Arlington National Cemetery. The remains were identified as those of an unidentified American soldier who was brought back from France, where he was found in a cemetery in Champagne, France.
What is Inside the Tomb?
So, what is inside the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier? The tomb is a bronze sarcophagus that sits atop a granite pedestal. The sarcophagus is adorned with a gilded inscription that reads, "Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God."
The tomb also contains several other important elements, including:
- A flame: A perpetual flame burns at the head of the tomb, symbolizing the eternal spirit of the unknown soldier.
- A wreath: A wreath is placed on the tomb every hour, day and night, as a symbol of respect and remembrance.
- A change of the guard: A ceremonial change of the guard takes place every 30 minutes, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
The Unknown Soldier’s Flag
The flag that drapes the tomb is a special "Tomb of the Unknown Soldier" flag, which is designed specifically for this purpose. The flag is made of a special fabric that is resistant to wind and weather, and it is flown at half-staff in honor of the unknown soldier.
The Unknown Soldiers from Other Countries
While the United States has only one Unknown Soldier, other countries have also dedicated tombs to their unknown soldiers. For example:
- The United Kingdom: The UK has a Tomb of the Unknown Warrior in Westminster Abbey, which was dedicated in 1920.
- Canada: Canada has a Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Ottawa, which was dedicated in 2000.
- France: France has a Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in the Arc de Triomphe, which was dedicated in 1921.
The Significance of the Tomb
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a powerful symbol of respect and gratitude for the sacrifices made by fallen soldiers. It serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring those who have given their lives in service to their countries. The tomb is also a place of pilgrimage for many people, who come to pay their respects and reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have served.
Table: Unknown Soldiers from Other Countries
| Country | Tomb Location | Dedication Date |
|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Westminster Abbey | 1920 |
| Canada | Ottawa | 2000 |
| France | Arc de Triomphe | 1921 |
Conclusion
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a sacred site that honors the sacrifices made by fallen soldiers from various countries. It is a powerful symbol of respect, gratitude, and remembrance, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring those who have given their lives in service to their countries. Whether you are from the United States or another country, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a place of pilgrimage that is worth visiting and reflecting on the sacrifices made by those who have served.
