Arlington Cemetery, (Part III of III) Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Part III of III.  

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

The Tomb was established in 1921 and contains the remains of unknown American soldiers from World Wars I and II, the Korean War and (until 1998) the Vietnam War.  The Tomb represents missing and unknown service members who made the ultimate sacrifice, not only giving their lives, but also their identities to protect our freedom.  Each was presented with the Medal of Honor at the time of interment and the medals, as well as the flags which covered their caskets, are on display inside the Memorial Amphitheater, directly to the rear of the Tomb.

The Tomb is guarded 24-hour-a-day, 365-days-a year by specially trained members of the 3rd United States Infantry, known as “The Old Guard”.

These kids were presenting a wreath from their school which was being placed on display at the tomb.  

Groups being allowed to place a wreath must follow specific rules including a dress code.   Although these groups must obtain prior approval, the final approval is that of the on duty sentry.  he has the option to deny they participate in the ceremony if he determines they are not dressed appropriately or are not following the established guidelines. 

Inscription on the Tomb.

As we watched, an older gentleman was wheeled up to the viewing area. 

He was watching intently.

Soon, another joined him.

Then another, then another, then another......

Then many more.  It was readily apparent these were vets coming to observe the ceremony. 

Logo on the hats and shirts of the vets and volunteer escorts. 

After the ceremony, I found out about the Badger Honor Flight.  They are part of the National Honor Flight Network, which works to ensure WWII and terminally ill veterans from all wars get an opportunity to see the memorials created in their honor.

The Honor Flight Network covers all costs associated with the trip. They have paid for over 80,000 vets to visit DC!  

I still get goosebumps thinking about what it must mean for them to take this trip and experience the memorials dedicated to their service!  It was an honor for us to see them! 

I didn't take this pic.  It's from the Badger Honor Flight's facebook page.
This is the full group of Vets from the May 19th trip. 

This was going to be the final of three blogs detailing our May 19th trip to Arlington Cemetery.  Anais and I returned this weekend for a short visit to see the flags so I will post a short, 'Bonus' blog with those pics...