Amid the serene landscape of Arlington National Cemetery lies a monument that carries deep significance for Americans and people around the world who value freedom and sacrifice. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is one of the most respected and poignant symbols of national gratitude, honoring those who gave everything without receiving individual recognition. But what is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier exactly, and why does it hold such a sacred place in American hearts?
This blog aims to unravel the historical significance, role, and symbols of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, answering key questions like when it was built, who is buried there, and why it is continually guarded.
By the end, you’ll understand why this eternal resting place is more than just a monument—it’s a lasting tribute to the valor and integrity of those who made the greatest of sacrifices.
What is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Date of Creation?
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was established on March 4, 1921, as a result of Congress authorizing its construction. At the close of World War I, the United States, inspired by similar efforts from Italy, France, and the United Kingdom, chose to commemorate soldiers who died unidentified in battle.
Placed on a hill overlooking Washington, D.C. in Arlington National Cemetery, the tomb was designed not just as a burial site but as an eternal reminder of nationwide gratitude. While originally a simple marble sarcophagus, today’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a more elaborate structure, completed in 1932. The Tomb sarcophagus is decorated with three wreaths on each side panel (north and south). On the front (east), three figures represent Peace, Victory and Valor. The back (west) features the inscription: “Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God.”
Who Is Buried in the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?
The tomb’s first occupant is a soldier from World War I, chosen in 1921 from among four unidentified bodies of American servicemen. Since then, unknown soldiers from World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War were also interred.
To represent World War II, the Army chose 18 unidentified bodies from North Africa, Europe, the Philippines and Hawaii. From these 18, two were chosen for final selection—one from the Pacific Theater and one from the Transatlantic Theater. On May 26, 1958, Hospital Corpsman 1st Class William R. Charette, an enlisted Navy sailor and Medal of Honor recipient, made the final selection aboard the USS Canberra. Meanwhile, four unidentified bodies from the Korean War were disinterred from the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Hawaii. Army Sgt. Ned Lyle chose one to become the Korean War Unknown.
The caskets of the World War II and Korean War Unknowns arrived in Washington on May 28, 1958, where they lay in state in the Capitol Rotunda until the morning of May 30. Reprising the events of 1921, a large ceremonial procession then escorted their caissons to Arlington National Cemetery. President Eisenhower awarded each the Medal of Honor, and the Unknowns of World War II and the Korean War were interred in the plaza beside their World War I comrade.
In 1984, advances in science and technology made identification of the dead increasingly accurate. By May 1984, only one set of recovered American remains had not been fully identified. These remains were designated as the Unknown Soldier from the Vietnam War.
On Memorial Day 1984, an Army caisson carried the Vietnam War Unknown from the U.S. Capitol to Memorial Amphitheater at Arlington National Cemetery, where President Ronald Reagan presided over the interment ceremony and bestowed the Medal of Honor. However, the Vietnam War representative, buried in 1984, was exhumed in 1998 after advances in DNA analysis identified him as U.S. Air Force First Lieutenant Michael Blassie. His remains were returned to his family, and no other unknown soldiers have been added from subsequent conflicts.
According to the U.S. government, given the advances made in DNA science, there is a strong likelihood there will never be a Vietnam veteran interred at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Today, the tomb remains a solemn resting place for America’s unnamed fallen from previous wars, as well as a symbolic place of remembrance for all soldiers lost in service to the nation.
What is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Trying to Represent?
The Tomb represents more than just those interred within its marble walls. It serves as a reminder of the ultimate price of service and the untold stories of human sacrifice made in the name of protecting liberty and democracy. Each unidentified soldier buried here stands for thousands who were never identified but gave everything to uphold American ideals. Today, there are more than 80,000 still missing in action.
What is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Guard Schedule?
If you’ve witnessed the immaculate precision of the guard-changing ceremony at the tomb, you know it carries extraordinary reverence. But why is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier guarded continuously?
The unending vigil reflects the nation’s eternal commitment to honor its fallen heroes. These soldiers, whose names and stories are lost to history, are never to be left alone, ensuring their contributions are never forgotten.
This tradition began in 1925 when the U.S. Army ordered a civilian guard to begin daily duty at the tomb in response to increasing reports of visitors’ disrespectful behavior. The tomb was originally unguarded for several years. In 1926, the military took over the task. And in 1937, round-the-clock guarding began, reinforcing the sacred duty of perpetual respect.
Who Guards the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?
The soldiers tasked with guarding the tomb belong to the elite 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, commonly known as The Old Guard. Founded in 1784, this regiment is the oldest active-duty infantry unit in the U.S. Army.
These soldiers undergo rigorous training, ensuring their movements and demeanor exemplify uniformity, respect, and precision. Their discipline is unmatched, and every guard who serves at the tomb must meet exacting standards of deportment. They are also the only Soldiers in the U.S. Army to earn the coveted Tomb Badge. As of last year, a little more than 700 badges have been awarded to Tomb Sentinels.
Why Does the Old Guard Keep Day-and-Night Vigils?
The 24/7 watch conducted by the Old Guard is an act of loyalty, symbolizing America’s vigilance despite the passage of time. It is also an accolade of respect for the fallen, demonstrating the unwavering gratitude of a nation to those who gave their lives.
It’s worth noting that extreme weather conditions, government shutdowns, or major events have never prevented the tomb from being guarded. The high standard of service reflects their motto, "Soldiers never die unless they are forgotten."
Has the Tomb Ever Been Unguarded?
Since the tomb began receiving full-time sentries in 1937, it has never been left unguarded, even during historical events such as Hurricane Sandy, where soldiers braved the harsh conditions to maintain their post.
What Happens if You Touch the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?
Tourists visiting Arlington National Cemetery are strongly reminded not to touch or disrespect the tomb. If someone breaks decorum, guards will sternly address them, aiming to uphold the solemnity of the site. The atmosphere of the tomb demands reverence, so any form of physical disturbance is not tolerated.
However, there is a limit to what the guards can do. Many people believe that the guards are authorized to shoot violators. That is incorrect. There is a security team at Arlington that works with local law enforcement authorities and if violators refuse to adhere to the Guard’s requests for decorum, then the security team is called in and the violators are dealt with.
What is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Post Orders?
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. Next, the Guard executes a sharp "shoulder-arms" movement to place his/her weapon on the shoulder closest to the visitors, signifying that he or she stands between the Tomb and any possible threat. The number 21 symbolizes the highest symbolic military honor that can be bestowed: the 21-gun salute.
Why Is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Important?
The tomb embodies the heart and soul of the American spirit, a visual and emotional representation of national sacrifice. The inscriptions on the sarcophagus read, “Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God,” reminding visitors of the sacredness of each life lost in war, whether identified or not.
Why Is It an Honor to Lay a Wreath?
One of the most meaningful ceremonies surrounding the tomb is the wreath-laying ceremony, during which individuals and organizations are invited to present commemorative wreaths. This gesture, shared across generations, signifies collective gratitude and respect. To lay a wreath at the tomb is both a privilege and a duty, a poignant connection to those who once gave everything without expecting recognition.
What is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier History?
In 1996, Sergeant Heather Lynn Johnsen became the first woman to earn the prestigious Tomb Guard identification badge. In 1961, Specialist 4th Class Fred Moore was selected as a Tomb Guard, becoming the first African American posted and earning the prestigious Tomb Guard identification badge.
Reflecting on Sacrifice
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier goes beyond being a monument; it is America’s enduring pledge to all who fight for freedom, including those whose names history has erased. Visiting the tomb is a deeply moving experience reminding us of the price of liberty and the untold courage supporting it.
If you haven’t already, consider a visit to Arlington National Cemetery to witness this powerful testament firsthand. Take a moment to reflect on the unknown patriots who sacrificed so much to protect a country and future generations they would never meet.