Unveiling the Untold Stories of Arlington National Cemetery: A Sacred Ground's Rich History

Arlington National Cemetery, located in Arlington, Virginia, is one of the most iconic and revered military cemeteries in the United States. As the final resting place for more than 400,000 American service members, civilians, and their families, Arlington National Cemetery holds a sacred place in the hearts of the nation. However, beyond its well-known monuments and historic sites, lies a treasure trove of untold stories and anecdotes waiting to be uncovered.

From the early days of its establishment in 1864 to the present, Arlington National Cemetery has played a significant role in the nation's history, serving as a military cemetery, a presidential cemetery, and even a burial ground for Union soldiers during the American Civil War. Over the years, the cemetery has been the final resting place for numerous notable figures, including President John F. Kennedy, the Unknown Soldier, and countless Medal of Honor recipients. But what lies behind the scenes of this hallowed ground? In this article, we will delve into the untold stories of Arlington National Cemetery, exploring its history, notable residents, and the many secrets and surprises that lie within its hallowed grounds.

A Brief History of Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery was established in 1864, during the American Civil War, as a military cemetery for Union soldiers. The cemetery was originally designed to serve as a temporary burial ground, but it quickly became a permanent fixture in the nation's landscape. In 1867, the cemetery was formally established as a national cemetery, and its first commander, Robert L. Stevenson, oversaw the burial of thousands of Union soldiers.

Over the years, Arlington National Cemetery has undergone numerous expansions and renovations, including the addition of new chapels, monuments, and mausoleums. In 1932, the cemetery was designated as a presidential cemetery, and in 1967, it was redesignated as a national shrine and historical shrine. Today, Arlington National Cemetery is one of the most visited military cemeteries in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Early Years and Notable Residents

One of the most significant events in Arlington National Cemetery's history occurred in 1864, when Union General Robert E. Lee surrendered to General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Courthouse. The surrender marked the effective end of the American Civil War, and it led to the establishment of Arlington National Cemetery as a military cemetery.

Arlington National Cemetery has been the final resting place for numerous notable figures, including:

• President John F. Kennedy
• President William Howard Taft
• President Calvin Coolidge
• General Douglas MacArthur
• General Henry H. Arnold
• Admiral Chester Nimitz
• General Omar Bradley

These individuals, among many others, have left an indelible mark on American history, and their graves and monuments are a testament to their service and sacrifice.

The Unknown Soldier and the Tomb of the Unknown

One of the most famous and mysterious structures within Arlington National Cemetery is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. In 1921, a group of unknown American soldiers were exhumed from a mass grave in France, and their remains were brought to the United States for burial.

The Unknown Soldier's remains were initially buried in an unmarked grave at Arlington National Cemetery, but in 1937, a grand tomb was built to honor the unknown soldier. The tomb is adorned with a bronze bronze plaque, which bears the inscription: "Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God."

The Unknown Soldier's remains were later identified as those of a World War I soldier, but the exact identity of the individual remains a mystery to this day. The tomb is a symbol of the sacrifice and bravery of American service members, and it serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of national cemeteries like Arlington National Cemetery.

Grave of President John F. Kennedy

One of the most visited graves in Arlington National Cemetery is that of President John F. Kennedy. The gravesite is located in Section 45, and it is marked by a simple headstone bearing the president's name, dates of birth and death, and a quote from his inaugural address: "Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country."

President Kennedy's gravesite is a place of pilgrimage for Americans, and it is surrounded by a memorial wall that bears the names of those who served with the president during his time in office. The gravesite is also home to a series of interactive exhibits and artifacts, including a 21-gun salute and a reenactment of the president's inaugural ceremony.

Arlington National Cemetery Today

Today, Arlington National Cemetery is a thriving community of Americans, with over 400,000 graves and countless monuments and memorials. The cemetery is managed by the United States Army, and it is open to the public 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Visitors to Arlington National Cemetery can tour the grounds, visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and attend a 21-gun salute ceremony. The cemetery also offers a range of educational programs and resources, including guided tours, museum exhibits, and online archives.

In addition to its historic significance, Arlington National Cemetery is also an important place of reflection and remembrance for Americans. The cemetery is a symbol of the nation's gratitude and respect for its service members and their families, and it serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made in defense of freedom and democracy.

Changing of the Guard Ceremony

One of the most iconic ceremonies held at Arlington National Cemetery is the Changing of the Guard ceremony. This ceremony takes place daily at 8:30 am and 11:00 am, and it features a 100-strong color guard team that marches to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier