Where is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Located?
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a monument dedicated to the unidentified remains of soldiers who have died in combat, and it is located in Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, United States. The tomb is a symbol of respect and gratitude for the sacrifices made by these brave men and women who have given their lives in service to their country.
History of the Tomb
The concept of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier dates back to World War I, when the United States government decided to honor the unknown soldiers who had died in combat. The first unknown soldier was buried in Arlington National Cemetery on November 11, 1921, with full military honors. The tomb was designed by architect Lorimer Rich and was built using white marble.
Location of the Tomb
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is located in Section 1 of Arlington National Cemetery, which is situated in Arlington, Virginia, just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. The cemetery is spread over 624 acres and is the final resting place for more than 400,000 service members, veterans, and their families.
The Tomb’s Design
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a simple yet elegant structure designed to honor the unknown soldiers. The tomb is made of white marble and is surrounded by a rectangular enclosure with a low wall. The tomb is topped with a marble slab that bears the inscription:
"Here rests in honored glory an American warrior known but to God"
The Unknown Soldiers
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier has been dedicated to four unknown soldiers:
- World War I: The first unknown soldier was buried in 1921 and was later exhumed and reburied in the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in 1998.
- World War II: The second unknown soldier was buried in 1958 and was later identified as Air Force 1st Lt. Michael Blassie in 1998.
- Korean War: The third unknown soldier was buried in 1958 and was later identified as U.S. Army Master Sgt. William H. Jones in 1998.
- Vietnam War: The fourth unknown soldier was buried in 1984 and was later identified as Air Force 1st Lt. Michael Blassie in 1998.
The Changing of the Guard
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is guarded 24 hours a day, 365 days a year by the 3rd United States Infantry Regiment, also known as "The Old Guard." The Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place every 30 minutes from April to September and every hour from October to March. The ceremony involves the exchange of the American flag and the presentation of a rifle volley.
Interesting Facts
- The Tomb is guarded by the 3rd United States Infantry Regiment, which is the oldest active infantry regiment in the United States Army.
- The Tomb is visited by over 2 million people each year.
- The Tomb is 77 feet long and 15 feet wide.
- The Tomb is surrounded by a 30-foot-wide plaza.
- The Tomb is lit at night by a series of spotlights.
Table: Unknown Soldiers
| War | Year Buried | Year Identified |
|---|---|---|
| World War I | 1921 | 1998 |
| World War II | 1958 | 1998 |
| Korean War | 1958 | 1998 |
| Vietnam War | 1984 | 1998 |
Conclusion
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a powerful symbol of respect and gratitude for the sacrifices made by unknown soldiers who have died in combat. Located in Arlington National Cemetery, the tomb is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in American history and military heritage. The Changing of the Guard ceremony is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by these brave men and women, and the tomb’s design and location make it a moving and unforgettable experience.
