The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a monument that serves as a tribute to the fallen soldiers who were never identified. This tomb is located in Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia, and is guarded by a select group of soldiers who are known as the "Tomb Guards." The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is regarded as one of the most sacred places in America, and it is visited by millions of tourists each year.
The Purpose of the Tomb
The purpose of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is to honor the memory of the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country but was never identified. It is a symbol of appreciation and gratitude for the sacrifices made by the brave soldiers who gave their lives for their country. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier serves as a reminder of the sacrifice and commitment of these soldiers and their families.
Who are the Unknown Soldiers?
The Unknown Soldiers are those who lost their lives in service but were never identified. These soldiers could be from any branch of the military, and their remains were not identified due to various reasons such as the severity of the injuries they sustained or the difficulty in identifying them. The remains of these soldiers were exhumed from various battlefields and cemeteries, and the remains of four unknown soldiers were interred in the tomb.
Honoring the Sacrifice of Unknown Soldiers
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and its guards serve as a symbol of the ultimate sacrifice of the unknown soldiers who gave their lives for their country. The tomb and its guards represent the gratitude and respect of the nation towards the soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice. It is a reminder to the people that these soldiers gave up their lives for the country and its values.
Why are Soldiers Chosen to Guard the Tomb?
The soldiers are chosen to guard the tomb because it is considered a high honor and a prestigious duty. The selected soldiers are required to be in top physical condition, have a strong military record, and meet stringent height and weight requirements. It is also considered a challenging duty as the guard must remain vigilant and alert 24/7, regardless of the weather conditions.
The Rigorous Selection Process for Tomb Guards
The selection process for Tomb Guards is rigorous and demanding. The soldiers must have an impeccable military record, be in excellent physical condition, have a height between 5’10" and 6’4", and pass a series of tests that include marching, rifle handling, and uniform inspection. The chosen soldiers undergo an intense training program that includes studying the history and significance of the Tomb and learning the intricate details of the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
The Importance of 24/7 Guard Duty
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is guarded 24/7, 365 days a year, by the Tomb Guards. This tradition represents the unwavering commitment of the soldiers towards their duty and the respect they hold for the unknown soldiers. The guards work in teams of three and take turns standing guard for two hours, followed by a twenty-minute break. During their duty, the guards remain stoic and vigilant, and they take great pride in their duty.
The Changing of the Guard Ceremony
The Changing of the Guard ceremony is a solemn and symbolic event that is performed by the Tomb Guards every hour during the summer months and every two hours during the winter. The ceremony is a tribute to the unknown soldiers who gave their lives for their country. The ceremony is characterized by precision, attention to detail, and an unwavering display of respect.
The Symbolism of the Tomb and the Guards
The Tomb and its guards are symbolic of the nation’s values of sacrifice, courage, and honor. The Tomb symbolizes the sacrifice of the unknown soldiers, and the guards represent the nation’s commitment to honoring their sacrifice. The guards’ discipline, precision, and unwavering devotion to their duty symbolize the military’s honor and commitment to service.
The Respectful Conduct Expected of Visitors
Visitors to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier are expected to conduct themselves with the utmost respect and dignity. Visitors are required to remain quiet and respectful during the Changing of the Guard ceremony. The use of cameras, cell phones, and other electronic devices is strictly prohibited during the ceremony. Any disruptive behavior is not tolerated, and visitors are required to follow the instructions of the Tomb Guards.
Conclusion: Continuing the Legacy of Remembrance
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and its guards serve as a reminder of the ultimate sacrifice made by the unknown soldiers. It is a testament to the values of courage, sacrifice, and honor that define the nation and its military. The Tomb and its guards have become a symbol of the nation’s gratitude and respect for the soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice. The legacy of remembrance must continue to honor these soldiers and their families for generations to come.
Sources and Further Reading
- "Tomb of the Unknown Soldier." Arlington National Cemetery, .
- "Tomb Guards." The Society of the Honor Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, https://www.tombguard.org/.
- "The Changing of the Guard." Arlington National Cemetery, https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/Explore/Changing-of-the-Guard.
