How Many Soldiers are Buried at Arlington?
Arlington National Cemetery, located in Arlington, Virginia, is one of the most iconic and revered military cemeteries in the United States. Established in 1864, the cemetery has been the final resting place for over 400,000 service members, veterans, and their families. In this article, we will delve into the numbers and provide an answer to the question: How many soldiers are buried at Arlington?
The Numbers
According to the Arlington National Cemetery’s official website, as of 2022, there are more than 400,000 graves at the cemetery. This number includes:
- Over 300,000 service members who died in combat or as a result of their service
- Over 20,000 veterans who were buried at the cemetery
- Over 75,000 family members of service members and veterans who were buried at the cemetery
Breakdown by War
The cemetery is a testament to the sacrifices made by service members across various conflicts. Here is a breakdown of the number of graves by war:
| War | Number of Graves |
|---|---|
| American Civil War | 18,000 |
| World War I | 115,000 |
| World War II | 130,000 |
| Korean War | 36,000 |
| Vietnam War | 50,000 |
| Gulf War and Iraq War | 10,000 |
| Afghanistan War | 2,000 |
| Other conflicts | 10,000 |
Notable Burials
Arlington National Cemetery is also the final resting place for many notable service members and 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 who played a key role in World War II and the Korean War
- General George S. Patton: A four-star general who led the Third Army during World War II
- Admiral Chester Nimitz: A five-star admiral who played a key role in the Pacific Theater during World War II
- The Unknown Soldier: A unidentified service member who was buried at the cemetery in 1921 and reinterred in 1984
Other Interesting Facts
Here are some other interesting facts about Arlington National Cemetery:
- The cemetery covers over 624 acres of land
- There are over 27,000 grave markers in the cemetery
- The cemetery has a Ceremonial Guard** that performs daily rifle volleys and flag-folding ceremonies
- The cemetery has a Memorial Amphitheater** that is the site of many memorial services and ceremonies
- The cemetery has a Tomb of the Unknown Soldier** that is guarded 24/7 by the 3rd United States Infantry Regiment
Conclusion
Arlington National Cemetery is a sacred place that honors the sacrifices made by service members and veterans from across the United States. With over 400,000 graves, it is a testament to the bravery and selflessness of those who have served our country. Whether you are a veteran, a family member, or simply a visitor, Arlington National Cemetery is a place that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
