5 Facts Arlington Monument

Introduction to the Arlington Monument

The Arlington Monument, also known as the Arlington National Cemetery, is a United States military cemetery in Arlington County, Virginia, across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. The cemetery is a final resting place for many American service members and their families, and it is also the location of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. In this blog post, we will explore five interesting facts about the Arlington Monument.

Fact 1: History of the Arlington Monument

The Arlington National Cemetery was established during the American Civil War in 1864. The cemetery was created on the estate of Confederate General Robert E. Lee, who had abandoned his home, Arlington House, at the start of the war. The first military burial at Arlington took place on May 13, 1864, and since then, the cemetery has become the final resting place for over 400,000 American service members and their families.

Fact 2: The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a memorial dedicated to American service members who have died without being identified. The tomb is guarded 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by the 3rd United States Infantry Regiment, also known as “The Old Guard.” The changing of the guard ceremony is a popular tourist attraction and is considered one of the most respectful and solemn ceremonies in the United States.

Fact 3: Notable Burials at Arlington

Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place for many notable American service members, including: * President John F. Kennedy and his wife, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis * General Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th President of the United States * General Omar Bradley, the first Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff * Audie Murphy, the most decorated American soldier of World War II * Medgar Evers, a civil rights leader who was assassinated in 1963

Fact 4: The Arlington Monument’s Symbolism

The Arlington Monument is steeped in symbolism, from the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to the memorial dedicated to the space shuttle Challenger crew. The cemetery is also home to the Women in Military Service for America Memorial, which honors the contributions of women in the US military. The monument is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by American service members and their families.

Fact 5: Visiting the Arlington Monument

The Arlington Monument is open to the public and offers a variety of tour options, including a self-guided tour and a guided tour. Visitors can also attend the changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which takes place every 30 minutes during the summer months and every 60 minutes during the winter months. The monument is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the Washington, D.C. area.

💡 Note: Visitors to the Arlington Monument should be respectful of the cemetery and its inhabitants, and follow all rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

In summary, the Arlington Monument is a powerful symbol of American history and sacrifice, and it is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in learning more about the United States military and its contributions to the country. From its rich history to its notable burials, the Arlington Monument is a unique and meaningful destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.