What is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a memorial dedicated to the unidentified remains of soldiers who have died in combat, whose identities are unknown or cannot be identified. The concept of the Unknown Soldier originated during World War I and has since been adopted by many countries around the world.
History of the Unknown Soldier
The idea of the Unknown Soldier dates back to World War I, when many soldiers died in combat and their remains were never identified. In 1921, the United States government decided to honor these unknown soldiers by interring them in a special tomb at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. The tomb was designed by architect Lorimer Rich and architect Cass Gilbert, and was dedicated on November 11, 1921.
What is the significance of the Unknown Soldier?
The Unknown Soldier represents all the soldiers who have died in combat, but whose identities are unknown or cannot be identified. The tomb is a symbol of respect and gratitude for their sacrifice, and serves as a reminder of the costs of war. The Unknown Soldier is also a representation of the countless families and loved ones who have lost their sons, daughters, fathers, and mothers in war.
Countries with their own Unknown Soldier
Many countries around the world have their own Unknown Soldier, including:
• France: The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is located at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and contains the remains of an unknown French soldier who died during World War I.
• United Kingdom: The Tomb of the Unknown Warrior is located in Westminster Abbey in London and contains the remains of an unknown British soldier who died during World War I.
• Canada: The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is located at the National War Memorial in Ottawa and contains the remains of an unknown Canadian soldier who died during World War I.
• Australia: The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is located at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra and contains the remains of an unknown Australian soldier who died during World War I.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in the United States
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in the United States is located at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia and contains the remains of an unknown American soldier who died during World War I. The tomb is guarded 24 hours a day, 365 days a year by the 3rd United States Infantry Regiment, also known as "The Old Guard".
The Unknown Soldier’s Flag
The Unknown Soldier’s flag is a unique symbol of respect and honor for the unknown soldier. The flag is flown at the tomb and is changed every hour, day and night, by the 3rd United States Infantry Regiment. The flag is a symbol of the country’s gratitude and respect for the unknown soldier’s sacrifice.
The Unknown Soldier’s Tomb
The Unknown Soldier’s tomb is a rectangular structure made of white marble and is topped with a bronze statue of a reclining figure, symbolizing the eternal sleep of the unknown soldier. The tomb is surrounded by a concrete plaza and is flanked by two bronze lamps, symbolizing the eternal light of freedom.
Interesting Facts about the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
• The Unknown Soldier’s remains were exhumed in 1921: The remains of the unknown American soldier were exhumed from a cemetery in France and were transported to the United States, where they were interred in the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
• The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier has been guarded 24 hours a day since 1937: The 3rd United States Infantry Regiment has been guarding the tomb since 1937, making it one of the most heavily guarded tombs in the world.
• The Unknown Soldier’s flag is changed every hour: The flag is changed every hour, day and night, by the 3rd United States Infantry Regiment, making it a unique and impressive symbol of respect and honor.
Conclusion
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a powerful symbol of respect and gratitude for the unknown soldiers who have died in combat. The concept of the Unknown Soldier originated during World War I and has since been adopted by many countries around the world. The tomb is a reminder of the costs of war and serves as a symbol of the countless families and loved ones who have lost their sons, daughters, fathers, and mothers in war.
Table: Countries with their own Unknown Soldier
| Country | Tomb Location | Unknown Soldier |
|---|---|---|
| France | Arc de Triomphe, Paris | Unknown French soldier |
| United Kingdom | Westminster Abbey, London | Unknown British soldier |
| Canada | National War Memorial, Ottawa | Unknown Canadian soldier |
| Australia | Australian War Memorial, Canberra | Unknown Australian soldier |
| United States | Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia | Unknown American soldier |
References
- Arlington National Cemetery. (n.d.). The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Retrieved from https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/About-Cemetery/Tomb-of-the-Unknown-Soldier
- United States Army. (n.d.). The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Retrieved from https://www.army.mil/tomb-of-the-unknown-soldier/
- Veterans Affairs Canada. (n.d.). The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Retrieved from <https://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/remembrance/ tomb-of-the-unknown-soldier>
