The Enduring Watch
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
As we step into the Eternal Flame and gaze upon the solemnity of the White Tomb, we are deeply moved by the solemn guardianship of the Unknown Warrior. But have you ever wondered why is the tomb of the Unknown Soldier guarded? This article unwraps the significance, symbolism, and historical backdrop that render this sacred edifice under the watchful eyes of the brave veterans.
The Origins and Significance
The custom of burying unknown fallen soldiers dates back to medieval times. In the UK, for instance, Henry V commissioned the construction of the Lady Chapel in Wells Cathedral to house the skeleton of an unknown soldier during the Hundred Years’ War. This tradition, however, gained momentum worldwide after World War I when the United States, British Empire, France, Greece, Italy, and Soviet Union honored their unknown solders.
The monument we know today, initially called the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior, was set up on November 8, 1920. One of the factors that solidified the protection duty was the British Prime Minister David Lloyd George’s assertion that ‘the Unknown Soldier is not just a memory – he is a living monument to the sacrifice of Britain’s soldiers.’
| Countries with Unknown Solider Monuments | Year Established |
|---|---|
| United States | 1921 |
| United Kingdom | 1920 |
| France | 1920 |
| Greece | 1922 |
| Italy | 1923 |
| Russian Federation | 2000 |
Motivations Behind the Protocols
So, what drives the continuous vigil?
Respect and Remembrance: Maintaining a constant watch recognizes the immense sacrifice of each unknown warrior, ensuring we never forget the price they paid for our freedom.
Symbol of National Identity: The memorial serves as a powerful symbolic representation of a nation’s commitment to its fallen servicemen, reinforcing national bonds and values.
Unity and Solidarity: The shared emotional connection and collective grief are palpable as people draw strength from the shared stories of unknown heroes. The guardianship reinforces this.
Continuity and Tradition: Ensuring the integrity of protocols and the continuity of symbolic gestures transcends generations. By upholding ceremonial duties, we honor heritage and national pride.
- Determination and Vigilance: A constant watch safeguards the solemnity of this sacred place, ensuring external threats are deterred from desecrating the noble sacrifice of the unknown, whether from enemies or internal sources.
The Roles of the Guardians
Handpicked soldiers, often representing national commands and military ranks, are granted the distinction of guarding these revered tombs. It is not just a passive duty, but an embodied representation of national pride:
Unshakeable Dedication: Armed forces select personnel who best embody the values of diligence, selflessness, and unwavering commitment – qualities epitomized in the act of guarding unknown soldiers.
- Symbolic Representation: Individual guardians embodies not only the nation’s, but also the fallen solders’ spirit, essence, and legacy through their selfless service.
