Arlington National Cemetery – Key Facts and Insights
Arlington National Cemetery is a sacred resting place for over 400,000 military veterans.
It spans across 624 acres of land, making it one of the largest cemeteries in the United States.
Each year, over 4 million visitors pay their respects and learn about American history.
The cemetery was established during the American Civil War in 1864.
Arlington National Cemetery is located in Arlington, Virginia, just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C.
The cemetery is home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a powerful symbol of sacrifice and honor.
Over 6,000 funerals take place at Arlington every year, including burials and cremated remains interments.
The cemetery is known for its meticulously maintained grounds and beautiful landscaping.
The headstones at Arlington National Cemetery are made of white marble and form row upon row of solemn memorials.
The oldest section of the cemetery, known as Section 27, dates back to the Civil War era.
Arlington National Cemetery holds the remains of two American presidents: John F. Kennedy and William Howard Taft.
The cemetery is also the final resting place for numerous Supreme Court justices, including Thurgood Marshall.
The Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier takes place every hour from October to March and every half-hour from April to September.
The cemetery is home to the Arlington National Cemetery Memorial Amphitheater, where important ceremonies and memorials often take place.
Arlington National Cemetery – Key Facts and Insights part 2
Arlington House, also known as the Robert E. Lee Memorial, is located within the cemetery grounds and offers panoramic views of Washington, D.C.
In addition to military veterans, Arlington National Cemetery also accepts eligible dependents for burial.
The Eternal Flame at President John F. Kennedy’s gravesite burns continuously as a symbol of his enduring legacy.
Visitors can explore the Arlington National Cemetery Welcome Center to learn more about the cemetery’s history and significance.
The cemetery contains several specialized burial areas, including sections for nurses, Space Shuttle Challenger astronauts, and the 259 victims of Pan Am Flight 103.
Arlington National Cemetery serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by men and women in uniform throughout American history.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier represents all those who have served and died for their country, but whose remains were never identified.
The cemetery’s grounds are filled with ancient oak trees and a variety of wildlife, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
The Women in Military Service for America Memorial, the only major national memorial honoring all women who have defended America throughout history, is located at Arlington National Cemetery.
Many famous military figures are buried at Arlington National Cemetery, including General Pershing, General MacArthur, and General Sheridan.
Arlington National Cemetery is open 365 days a year, allowing people to pay their respects regardless of the season or holiday.
The cemetery is administered by the U.S. Army and is considered a hallowed place of honor, reflection, and remembrance.
The burial flags at Arlington National Cemetery are flown at half-staff on Memorial Day as a sign of respect for the fallen.
The Soldiers’ and Airmen’s Home National Cemetery merged with Arlington National Cemetery in 1973, adding even more history and significance to the site.
The cemetery’s Visitor Center offers guided tours, maps, and information to help visitors navigate the vast grounds and understand its importance.
Arlington National Cemetery is a popular destination for school field trips, providing students with a firsthand learning experience about American history and patriotism.
The cemetery receives numerous wreaths and floral arrangements throughout the year in honor of those buried there.
Visitors can participate in the Wreaths Across America program, which allows them to sponsor a wreath to be placed on a veteran’s grave during the holiday season.
The cemetery is known for its stunning views of Washington, D.C.’s iconic landmarks, including the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol.
Many famous photographs, including the iconic image of John F. Kennedy’s funeral procession, have been captured within the grounds of Arlington National Cemetery.
The cemetery contains memorials and monuments dedicated to specific military units and conflicts, such as the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial and the Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial.
The Arlington National Cemetery app provides visitors with an interactive map, historical information, and the ability to locate specific grave sites.
The cemetery’s Memorial Arboretum features a wide variety of trees and plant species, providing a tranquil environment for reflection and remembrance.
Arlington National Cemetery participates in the National Cemetery Administration’s Save Our Flags program, which recycles and retires worn-out burial flags in an environmentally friendly manner.
The cemetery hosts numerous special events throughout the year, including Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies, concerts, and educational programs.
The Arlington National Cemetery online database allows people to search for specific grave locations and learn more about the individuals buried there.
The cemetery’s impressive collection of memorials and sculptures serves as both a tribute to the fallen and as works of art that honor their sacrifices.
Many military traditions and rituals, such as the playing of Taps and the folding of the American flag, are performed during burial services at Arlington National Cemetery.
The cemetery’s dedicated staff and volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that every fallen service member is laid to rest with dignity and respect.
Arlington National Cemetery remains an active burial ground, with an average of 25-30 burials taking place each weekday.
The cemetery symbolizes the nation’s gratitude towards those who have defended the United States and serves as a powerful reminder of the price of freedom.
