The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is guarded to honor the sacrifices of American service members whose remains are unidentified. Discover the history and significance behind this solemn duty on WHY.EDU.VN, exploring national symbolism, and the deep respect for military service embodied by the guards. Uncover historical insights and the importance of this tribute.
1. Understanding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, located in Arlington National Cemetery, stands as a poignant memorial to unidentified U.S. service members. This neoclassical, white marble sarcophagus overlooks Washington, D.C., and has been a final resting place for an unidentified World War I service member since 1921. Unknowns from later wars were added in 1958 and 1984. The Tomb serves as a place of mourning, reflection, and national symbolism, representing the ultimate sacrifice of those who have served. The constant vigil maintained by the Tomb Guards adds a layer of reverence and respect, making it a powerful symbol of honor and remembrance.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington National Cemetery, featuring the changing of the guard ceremony with the Guard marching in front of the sarcophagus.
2. The Historical Context of Unknown Soldiers
2.1. From Mass Graves to National Recognition
Throughout history, warfare has often resulted in large numbers of unidentified dead. Factors such as poor record-keeping, devastating injuries, and the urgency of burial have contributed to this phenomenon. Before the Civil War, unidentified remains were frequently interred in mass graves. At Arlington National Cemetery, these included soldiers and sailors from the War of 1812, reburied in 1905 after their discovery at the Washington Barracks.
2.2. The Civil War and the Rise of National Cemeteries
The Civil War (1861-1865) saw unprecedented casualty rates and a lack of personal identification, leading to many unknowns buried near battlefields. In 1862, the national cemetery system was established to ensure proper burials for all service members. Despite this, numerous unknown remains were recovered post-war. Arlington National Cemetery houses individual Civil War unknown burials and the Tomb of the Civil War Unknowns, beneath which lie the remains of 2,111 Union and Confederate soldiers. Estimates suggest that nearly half of the Civil War dead were never identified.
2.3. Spanish-American War: Improved Identification
During the Spanish-American War (1898), the U.S. military adopted a policy of repatriating the bodies of service members who died abroad. New Army regulations mandated temporary graves with identifying information, overseen by the Army’s Quartermaster Corps. This significantly improved identification rates, marking a shift towards honoring and recognizing individual service members even in death.
3. The Genesis of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
3.1. World War I: A Catalyst for Memorialization
World War I saw the introduction of aluminum identification discs for U.S. service members, precursors to “dog tags.” The War Department established the Graves Registration Service within the Quartermaster Corps to manage burials. However, the repatriation of bodies became a contentious issue, with over 100,000 U.S. casualties compared to fewer than 3,000 in the Spanish-American War.
France and Great Britain, which suffered even greater losses, barred the repatriation of remains. To console their citizens, both nations repatriated and interred one unknown soldier on Armistice Day, November 11, 1920. Great Britain buried its Unknown Warrior in Westminster Abbey, while France buried its Unknown Soldier at the Arc de Triomphe. These acts symbolized all British and French service members whose remains were unidentifiable.
3.2. American Policy and the Proposal for a Tomb
American policy offered families the choice of repatriating their deceased at no cost or burying them in permanent U.S. military cemeteries in Europe. In December 1920, Congressman Hamilton Fish Jr., a World War I veteran, proposed legislation for the interment of an unknown American soldier in a special tomb at Arlington National Cemetery. The intent was to honor a soldier representing no specific background, embodying the soul of America and the ultimate sacrifice of its heroic dead.
3.3. The Selection Process of the World War I Unknown
In October 1921, four unidentified U.S. military personnel were exhumed from American military cemeteries in France. These caskets arrived at Châlons-sur-Marne, France, on October 23, 1921.
On October 24, 1921, Maj. Robert P. Harbold of the Quartermaster Corps, with the aid of French and American soldiers, rearranged the caskets to ensure impartiality. Sgt. Edward F. Younger selected the Unknown by placing a spray of white roses on one of the caskets.
3.4. The Journey and Interment of the Unknown Soldier
From Châlons-sur-Marne, the Unknown was transported to Le Havre, France, and then by the USS Olympia to Washington, D.C., arriving on November 9, 1921. The Unknown lay in state in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda, where approximately 90,000 visitors paid their respects on November 10, 1921.
On November 11, 1921, the Unknown was carried in a procession through Washington, D.C., and across the Potomac River. A state funeral ceremony was held at Arlington National Cemetery’s Memorial Amphitheater, and the Unknown was interred in the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. President Warren G. Harding officiated and placed the Medal of Honor on the casket, accompanied by numerous foreign dignitaries presenting their nations’ highest awards.
3.5. The Original Tomb and Its Early Significance
Initially, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was a simple marble slab. Over the years, it became a focal point for mourning and paying respects to the Unknown Soldier and the military personnel he represented, drawing thousands of visitors to Arlington National Cemetery.
4. Expanding the Honor: World War II and Korean War Unknowns
4.1. The Decision to Honor Unknowns from Later Conflicts
Following World War II, there was support for interring and honoring an Unknown from that war. However, the Korean War delayed these plans. In August 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower approved the selection and interment of Unknowns from both World War II and Korea.
4.2. The Selection Process for World War II and Korean War Unknowns
The selection process for the World War II Unknown was complicated due to the global nature of the conflict. In 1958, 13 bodies were exhumed from military cemeteries across North Africa and Europe and brought to the Epinal American Cemetery and Memorial in France. On May 12, 1958, Major General Edward J. O’Neill selected the Unknown representing the Trans-Atlantic Theater of World War II.
To represent the Pacific Theater, five bodies were exhumed from Fort McKinley American Cemetery in the Philippines and the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Hawaii. At the same time, four bodies from the Korean War were exhumed from the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. On May 15, 1958, Army Master Sergeant Ned Lyle selected the Korean War Unknown, and on May 16, 1958, Air Force Colonel Glenn T. Eagleston selected the World War II Trans-Pacific Unknown.
4.3. The Journey to the United States
The USS Blandy and USS Boston met the USS Canberra off the coast of Virginia. On May 26, 1958, all three caskets were placed on the deck of the Canberra, with the Korean War Unknown between the two World War II Unknowns. Navy Hospital Corpsman 1st Class William R. Charette, a Medal of Honor recipient from the Korean War, then selected the World War II Unknown.
4.4. Interment at Arlington National Cemetery
The Unknowns arrived in Washington, D.C., on May 28, 1958, and lay in state in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda for two days. On May 30, 1958, they were transported to Arlington National Cemetery and interred in crypts to the west of the World War I Unknown.
5. The Vietnam War Unknown and Subsequent Developments
5.1. Initial Preparations and Political Pressure
Before the Vietnam War ended, Arlington National Cemetery prepared to add a third crypt to the Tomb. However, advances in technology led many to believe that all remains from Vietnam could eventually be identified. Mounting political pressure to recognize a Vietnam War unknown led President Jimmy Carter and Max Cleland to dedicate a bronze plaque at Memorial Amphitheater on Veterans Day, November 11, 1978.
5.2. The Selection and Interment of the Vietnam War Unknown
By May 1984, only one set of recovered American remains from Vietnam remained unidentified. On May 17, 1984, at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, Medal of Honor recipient Marine Corps Sergeant Major Allan Jay Kellogg, Jr. designated the remains as the Vietnam War Unknown. The casket was transported to Travis Air Force Base, California, and then to Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland. The Vietnam War Unknown lay in state in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda from May 25 to 28, 1984.
5.3. The Identification of 1st Lt. Michael Joseph Blassie
The Department of Defense and civilian partners continued to identify remains recovered from Vietnam. Evidence suggested that the Vietnam War Unknown was likely Air Force 1st Lt. Michael Joseph Blassie, a pilot shot down in 1972. At the request of Blassie’s family, the remains were exhumed on May 14, 1998. DNA testing positively identified the remains as those of Blassie, who was reinterred at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri.
5.4. Rededication of the Crypt
The crypt designated for the Vietnam War Unknown remains vacant. On September 17, 1999, National POW/MIA Recognition Day, it was rededicated to honor all missing U.S. service members from the Vietnam War, symbolizing the ongoing commitment to remember those who never returned.
6. The Significance of Guarding the Tomb
6.1. The Beginning of the Guard at the Tomb
In March 1926, soldiers from nearby Fort Myer were assigned to guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, initially only during daylight hours. Their purpose was to discourage visitors from climbing or stepping on the Tomb. In 1937, the guards became a 24/7 presence, ensuring constant watch over the Unknown Soldier.
6.2. The Old Guard: Guardians of Honor
On April 6, 1948, the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, known as “The Old Guard,” was designated as the Army’s official ceremonial unit and began guarding the Tomb. Soldiers of The Old Guard also serve as escorts to the president and conduct military ceremonies in and around Washington, D.C., including military funeral escorts at Arlington National Cemetery.
6.3. Selection and Training of Tomb Guards
Soldiers who volunteer to become Tomb Guards undergo a strict selection process and intensive training, reflecting the honor and responsibility of their duty. Each element of the Tomb Guard’s routine has profound meaning. The Guard marches 21 steps down the black mat behind the Tomb, turns and faces east for 21 seconds, turns and faces north for 21 seconds, and then takes 21 steps down the mat.
6.4. Symbolism in the Guard’s Routine
The Guard executes a sharp “shoulder-arms” movement, placing their weapon on the shoulder closest to the visitors, symbolizing that they stand between the Tomb and any potential threat. The number 21 symbolizes the highest symbolic military honor: the 21-gun salute. This meticulous routine underscores the solemnity and respect associated with guarding the Tomb.
7. Wreath Layings and Visitor Significance
7.1. Honoring Sacrifices Through Wreath Layings
Laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a time-honored tradition for individuals and organizations to honor the sacrifices of American service members. Presidents, politicians, public figures, and foreign dignitaries all pay their respects in this manner. Honor Flights, which provide all-expense-paid trips for veterans to see memorials in Washington, D.C., often include visits to the Tomb and wreath-laying ceremonies.
7.2. Public Participation and Global Significance
The opportunity to participate in a wreath-laying ceremony is open to the general public, including school groups, fostering a sense of national unity and remembrance. Millions of people from around the world visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier each year to honor military service, mourn loved ones, and recognize its historical and national significance.
7.3. The Tomb’s Enduring Symbolism
One hundred years after the World War I Unknown’s burial, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier remains a powerful symbol of service, sacrifice, mourning, and memory, continually reminding visitors of the cost of freedom and the importance of honoring those who have served.
8. The Profound Symbolism Embedded in the Tomb’s Design
8.1. The Sarcophagus and Its Embellishments
The Tomb’s sarcophagus is meticulously adorned with symbolic elements, each contributing to its overall message of honor and remembrance. The north and south panels are decorated with three wreaths, symbolizing victory, valor, and peace, representing the aspirations and outcomes of military service.
8.2. Symbolic Figures on the East Panel
On the front (east) side, three figures are carved, representing Peace, Victory, and Valor. These figures embody the ideals for which soldiers fight and the values that the nation holds dear. Peace signifies the ultimate goal of conflict resolution, Victory represents the achievement of objectives, and Valor embodies the courage and bravery displayed by service members.
8.3. The Inscription on the West Panel
The back (west) panel bears the inscription: “Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God.” This inscription highlights the anonymity of the Unknown Soldier while underscoring the profound respect and honor due to all who serve, regardless of whether their names are known.
8.4. The Tomb as a Focal Point of National Identity
Collectively, these design elements transform the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier into a powerful symbol of national identity, reflecting the nation’s values and its deep gratitude for the sacrifices made by its military personnel.
9. Experiencing the Changing of the Guard: A Ritual of Respect
9.1. The Precision and Solemnity of the Ceremony
The Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a deeply moving ceremony, characterized by its precision, solemnity, and profound respect. The ritual is performed with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every movement and gesture conveys the gravity of the occasion.
9.2. Significance of the Guard’s Attire and Bearing
Each Tomb Guard is impeccably dressed in a ceremonial uniform, free of any blemish or imperfection. Their bearing is one of unwavering solemnity, reflecting the weight of their responsibility and the honor they bestow upon the Unknown Soldiers.
9.3. The Silent Drill and Symbolic Movements
The silent drill performed during the Changing of the Guard involves a series of precise movements and weapon handling, all executed without verbal commands. The click of the heels, the snap of the weapon, and the deliberate pacing of the Guard create an atmosphere of reverence and contemplation.
9.4. The Wreath Laying Ceremony and Its Emotional Impact
The Wreath Laying Ceremony, often performed as part of the Changing of the Guard, provides an opportunity for individuals and groups to pay their respects to the Unknown Soldiers. The emotional impact of witnessing this ceremony is profound, fostering a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made by military personnel.
9.5. Visiting Tips and Etiquette
Visitors to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier are encouraged to observe proper etiquette, including remaining silent and respectful during the Changing of the Guard. Photography is permitted, but visitors are asked to refrain from using flash or making excessive noise.
10. The Educational Value of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
10.1. Programs for Schools and Educational Groups
Arlington National Cemetery offers a variety of educational programs designed to engage students and educational groups in the history and significance of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. These programs provide valuable insights into the Tomb’s origins, symbolism, and enduring legacy.
10.2. Online Resources and Virtual Tours
For those unable to visit Arlington National Cemetery in person, online resources and virtual tours offer an opportunity to explore the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from anywhere in the world. These resources provide detailed information about the Tomb’s history, design, and significance, as well as interactive features that enhance the learning experience.
10.3. Promoting Civic Engagement and Remembrance
By educating the public about the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington National Cemetery promotes civic engagement and encourages visitors to reflect on the importance of military service and sacrifice. The Tomb serves as a reminder of the values that unite the nation and the debt owed to those who have defended its freedoms.
11. Contemporary Relevance: The Tomb in Modern Society
11.1. Adapting to Modern Memorial Practices
In an era of evolving memorial practices, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier continues to adapt and remain relevant to modern society. While maintaining its traditional rituals and symbolism, the Tomb also incorporates new technologies and approaches to engage with visitors and promote remembrance.
11.2. Social Media and Digital Engagement
Arlington National Cemetery utilizes social media and digital platforms to share information about the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with a global audience. These platforms provide opportunities for individuals to connect with the Tomb, share their stories, and participate in online discussions about military service and sacrifice.
11.3. Community Outreach and Partnerships
Arlington National Cemetery partners with community organizations and local schools to promote awareness of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and its significance. These partnerships involve outreach programs, educational initiatives, and volunteer opportunities that engage the community in honoring the nation’s veterans.
11.4. Future Preservation and Commemoration
Efforts are underway to ensure the preservation of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier for future generations. These efforts involve ongoing maintenance, restoration, and conservation work, as well as long-term planning to address the challenges of preserving this iconic memorial in a changing world.
12. Unveiling the Unknowns: Stories of Sacrifice and Honor
12.1. The Quest for Identification
The quest to identify the Unknown Soldiers buried at the Tomb represents a profound commitment to honoring individual service and sacrifice. Advances in DNA technology and forensic science have made it possible to identify remains that were once considered unidentifiable, bringing closure to families and restoring names to those who gave their lives for their country.
12.2. The Emotional Impact of Identification
The identification of an Unknown Soldier can have a profound emotional impact on families, communities, and the nation as a whole. It provides an opportunity for closure, healing, and remembrance, as well as a renewed appreciation for the sacrifices made by military personnel throughout history.
12.3. Memorial Services and Reinterment
Following the identification of an Unknown Soldier, memorial services and reinterment ceremonies are often held to honor their service and sacrifice. These ceremonies provide an opportunity for families, friends, and fellow service members to pay their respects and celebrate the life of the individual who has been identified.
12.4. Ongoing Efforts and Future Prospects
Ongoing efforts to identify remains recovered from past conflicts represent a continuing commitment to honoring the nation’s veterans and ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten. As technology continues to advance, there is hope that more Unknown Soldiers will be identified in the future, bringing closure to their families and restoring their names to history.
13. Answering Common Questions About the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
13.1. FAQ: Origins and Purpose
Q: When was the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier established?
A: The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was established in 1921, following World War I.
Q: What is the purpose of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?
A: The Tomb is dedicated to honoring unidentified U.S. service members who died in service to the nation.
13.2. FAQ: The Guard and Its Duties
Q: Who guards the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?
A: The Tomb is guarded by soldiers from the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, known as “The Old Guard.”
Q: How are Tomb Guards selected?
A: Tomb Guards undergo a rigorous selection process and intensive training to ensure they meet the highest standards of excellence.
Q: What is the significance of the Guard’s routine?
A: The Guard’s routine is full of symbolism, reflecting the solemnity and honor associated with guarding the Tomb.
13.3. FAQ: Visiting the Tomb
Q: Can the public visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?
A: Yes, the Tomb is open to the public, and millions of people visit each year.
Q: What is the proper etiquette for visiting the Tomb?
A: Visitors are encouraged to remain silent and respectful during their visit and to observe the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Q: Are wreath-laying ceremonies open to the public?
A: Yes, the opportunity to participate in a wreath-laying ceremony is available to the general public, including school groups.
13.4. FAQ: Symbolism and Design
Q: What do the figures on the Tomb represent?
A: The figures on the Tomb represent Peace, Victory, and Valor.
Q: What is the meaning of the inscription on the Tomb?
A: The inscription “Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God” highlights the anonymity of the Unknown Soldier while underscoring the profound respect and honor due to all who serve.
13.5. FAQ: Historical Context
Q: Why were Unknown Soldiers chosen from different wars?
A: Unknown Soldiers were chosen from different wars to represent all unidentified service members who have died in service to the nation.
Q: What happened to the Vietnam War Unknown?
A: The Vietnam War Unknown was later identified as 1st Lt. Michael Joseph Blassie and reinterred at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri. The crypt designated for the Vietnam War Unknown remains vacant and is dedicated to honoring all missing U.S. service members from the Vietnam War.
14. Conclusion: Honoring Sacrifice, Remembering the Unknown
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier stands as a timeless tribute to the sacrifices of American service members whose remains are unidentified. Guarded with unwavering dedication and steeped in symbolism, the Tomb serves as a place of mourning, reflection, and national pride. As we honor the Unknown Soldiers, we also remember all those who have served and continue to serve, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten.
Do you have more questions about the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier or other historical monuments? Visit WHY.EDU.VN at 101 Curiosity Lane, Answer Town, CA 90210, United States, or contact us via Whatsapp at +1 (213) 555-0101. Our team of experts is ready to provide detailed, reliable answers to all your inquiries. Explore our website, why.edu.vn, today and discover a world of knowledge at your fingertips.
