Arlington is home of the United States military cemetery:
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| These 624 acres have interred those from as far back as the American Civil War. |
The cemetery was built during the Civil War on the land of Confederate General Robert E. Lee and his wife, Mary Anna, who was Martha Washington's great granddaughter. When the Civil War broke out General Lee did not want to be on enemy territory so he abandoned his estate even though he still owned it. When the war ended, the Union buried many of their dead there so he did not return. It is estimated that the cemetery will be full in the year 2060. Any honorable member who served in the armed forces may be buried here along with their spouse and minor children.
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| Significant burials: John F Kennedy and Jackie Kennedy Onassis with
eternal flame; While looking at the view of the city, JFK told his
brother that he could live here forever, so Robert decided to bury him
here. |
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| Robert Kennedy is also buried here with a simple white cross and tombstone. |
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier stands on top of a hill overlooking DC.
Honor guards have guarded it 24/7 since July 2, 1937.
There is a meticulous routine for the Tomb Guards (change of guard at every hour)
1. Marches 21 steps down the black mat behind the Tomb.
2. Turns, faces east for 21 seconds.
3. Turns and faces north for 21 seconds.
4. Takes 21 steps down the mat.
5. Repeats the routine until the soldier is relieved of duty at the Changing of the Guard.
After each turn, the Guard executes a sharp "shoulder-arms" movement to place the weapon on the shoulder closest to the visitors to signify that the Guard stands between the Tomb and any possible threat.
Twenty-one was chosen because it symbolizes the highest military honor that can be bestowed the 21-gun salute.
Each turn the guard makes precise movements followed by a loud click of the heels as he snaps them together. The guard is changed every half hour during daylight in the summer, and every hour during daylight in the winter, and every two hours at night (when the cemetery is closed to the public), regardless of weather conditions.
Emily's class had the privilege of representing their school by laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Her classmates, Anissa and Adrianne were chosen to represent KHA and participated in the wreath laying ceremony.
It was a humbling and honoring ceremony.
