Introduction to Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery is one of the most important national symbols of the United States, located in Arlington County, Virginia. It is the final resting place of more than 400,000 military veterans, including those who have served in every war that the United States has been involved in. The cemetery is also the location of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is a symbol of the sacrifices made by the country’s unknown service members.
History of Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery was established in 1864 during the Civil War, when the Union Army confiscated the land from Confederate General Robert E. Lee’s family. The original purpose of the cemetery was to provide a final resting place for Union soldiers who had died during the war. Over the years, the cemetery has expanded to include veterans from all of the country’s wars, including the World Wars, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.
Significance of Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery is a symbol of the country’s commitment to honoring its military veterans. It is a place where people can pay their respects to those who have sacrificed their lives for the country’s freedom and security. The cemetery is also a reminder of the sacrifices made by the families of military service members, who have to cope with the loss of their loved ones.
Duties of the Arlington National Cemetery
The primary duty of the Arlington National Cemetery is to provide a final resting place for military service members and their families. The cemetery is responsible for the maintenance of the grounds, the placement of headstones and markers, and the coordination of funeral services. In addition, the cemetery is responsible for the preservation of the historic buildings and monuments located on the grounds.
The role of the Department of the Army
The Department of the Army is responsible for overseeing the operations of the Arlington National Cemetery. This includes the appointment of the cemetery’s director and the funding of its operations. The Army is also responsible for ensuring that the cemetery is following all applicable regulations and laws.
The United States Army Military District of Washington
The United States Army Military District of Washington is the Army command responsible for providing support to the Arlington National Cemetery. This includes providing military honors for funerals, conducting security operations, and maintaining the grounds.
The Arlington National Cemetery Advisory Commission
The Arlington National Cemetery Advisory Commission is a group of 11 members appointed by the Secretary of the Army. The commission is responsible for providing advice and recommendations on issues related to the cemetery’s operations and management.
The Office of Army Cemeteries
The Office of Army Cemeteries is responsible for overseeing all of the Army’s cemeteries, including the Arlington National Cemetery. The office provides guidance and support to the cemetery’s director and staff and ensures that the cemetery is meeting all of its obligations.
Responsibility of the National Park Service
The National Park Service is responsible for the preservation of the historic buildings and monuments located on the grounds of the cemetery. The agency is also responsible for providing interpretive programs and educational materials for visitors to the cemetery.
Oversight by the Secretary of the Army
The Secretary of the Army is responsible for overseeing the operations and management of the Arlington National Cemetery. This includes the appointment of the cemetery’s director and the funding of its operations. The Secretary is also responsible for ensuring that the cemetery is following all applicable regulations and laws.
Oversight by the United States Congress
The United States Congress has oversight responsibility for the Arlington National Cemetery. This includes providing funding for the cemetery’s operations and conducting oversight hearings to ensure that the cemetery is meeting its obligations.
Conclusion: Arlington National Cemetery as a National Symbol
Arlington National Cemetery is a national symbol of the United States, representing the country’s commitment to honoring its military veterans. The cemetery’s operations and management are overseen by a number of entities, including the Department of the Army, the United States Army Military District of Washington, the Arlington National Cemetery Advisory Commission, the Office of Army Cemeteries, the National Park Service, and the United States Congress. Together, these entities ensure that the cemetery is fulfilling its duty to provide a final resting place for the country’s service members and their families.
