The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, located in Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia, is a solemn and revered monument dedicated to deceased U.S. service members whose remains have not been identified. Established in 1921, the tomb represents and honors all unidentified soldiers who have perished in combat. The tomb is an iconic symbol of sacrifice and serves as a poignant reminder of the cost of war and the valor of those who serve.

The monument itself is a white marble sarcophagus inscribed with the words: "Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God." It was initially dedicated to an unidentified soldier from World War I, but has since been expanded to include unknown soldiers from World War II, the Korean War, and initially the Vietnam War; however, the remains from Vietnam were later identified and disinterred. The tomb is located on a hill overlooking Washington, D.C., and is part of a larger complex that includes memorials and gravesites of many other notable figures in American history.

One of the most compelling aspects of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is the meticulous changing of the guard ceremony performed by the U.S. Army's 3rd Infantry Regiment, also known as "The Old Guard." This ritual is conducted 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, regardless of weather conditions. The precision and dedication displayed by the guards symbolize the nation's respect and eternal gratitude for the unknown soldiers' sacrifices. Visitors to Arlington National Cemetery can witness this moving ceremony and pay their respects at the tomb, which stands as a powerful testament to the bravery and selflessness of America's armed forces.