Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (Arlington) facts for kids

A Tomb Guard on duty in 2018.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a special monument in the United States. It honors American service members who died in wars but whose remains could not be identified. This important place is located in Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

The first "Unknown" soldier buried here was from World War I. This soldier received the Medal of Honor, which is the highest military award in the U.S. They also received the Victoria Cross from the United Kingdom and other top awards from different countries. Later, other Unknowns from different wars were also buried here. Each time, a U.S. President attended their funeral and presented them with the Medal of Honor.

This monument does not have an official name, but it is widely known as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier or the Tomb of the Unknowns. It stands as a powerful symbol of respect for all who have served and sacrificed for their country.

What is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a large, white marble monument. It represents all American service members whose bodies were never identified after a war. It's a place where people can remember and honor those who gave their lives for their country, even if their names are not known. The Tomb helps us remember the great sacrifices made during times of conflict.

Why are there "Unknown" Soldiers?

During wars, especially in the past, it was often very difficult to identify the bodies of fallen soldiers. Battles were chaotic, and sometimes, remains were too damaged or scattered to be recognized. Because of this, many brave service members were buried without their families knowing exactly where they were or if they had died. The idea of an "Unknown Soldier" came about to give these individuals a place of honor and to represent all those who were lost.

Where is the Tomb Located?

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is found in Arlington National Cemetery. This cemetery is a very important national burial ground for military veterans and their families. It is located in Arlington County, Virginia, just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C.. Many famous Americans and thousands of service members are buried there.

History of the Tomb

The idea for the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier came after World War I. So many American soldiers had died overseas, and many could not be identified. People wanted a special way to honor them.

The First Unknown Soldier

In 1921, the body of an unidentified American soldier from World War I was chosen from four unknowns in France. This soldier was brought back to the United States on a ship called the USS Olympia. On November 11, 1921, which was Armistice Day (now called Veterans Day), the Unknown Soldier was buried at Arlington National Cemetery. This day was chosen because it marked the end of World War I.

Adding More Unknowns

After World War II and the Korean War, more Unknown Soldiers were added to the Tomb. In 1958, two more Unknowns were buried: one from World War II and one from the Korean War. Then, in 1984, an Unknown Soldier from the Vietnam War was also buried there.

The Vietnam Unknown's Story

In 1998, DNA testing became much more advanced. Scientists were able to identify the Vietnam Unknown as Michael Blassie, a U.S. Air Force pilot. His family had wanted him identified for a long time. Once he was identified, his remains were moved from the Tomb and returned to his family for a private burial. The crypt (burial space) for the Vietnam Unknown at the Tomb is now empty. It has a new inscription that says, "Honoring and Keeping Faith with America's Missing Servicemen 1958–1975." This reminds us of all those who are still missing from that war.

The Tomb Guards

One of the most famous parts of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is the special guard that protects it. These guards are members of the U.S. Army's 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, also known as "The Old Guard." They are chosen for their dedication, discipline, and commitment.

The Changing of the Guard Ceremony

The Tomb is guarded 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every single day of the year, no matter the weather. The guards perform a very precise ceremony called the "Changing of the Guard." This happens every hour during the day and every two hours at night. During the ceremony, a new guard takes over from the old one. The movements are very exact and silent, showing great respect for the Unknowns.

Rules for the Guards

The Tomb Guards follow very strict rules. They march exactly 21 steps down the black mat behind the Tomb, turn, face the Tomb for 21 seconds, turn again, and march 21 steps back. The number 21 is important because it represents the 21-gun salute, which is the highest military honor. The guards wear perfect uniforms and carry their rifles on the shoulder closest to the Tomb, showing that they are protecting it. They are truly dedicated to their duty.

Symbolism of the Tomb

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is more than just a monument. It is a powerful symbol for the entire nation.

Honoring Sacrifice

It represents the ultimate sacrifice made by all service members who have died for their country, especially those whose identities are unknown. It reminds us that every life lost in service is important and remembered.

National Unity

The Tomb also brings people together. It is a place where Americans from all walks of life can come to pay their respects and reflect on the cost of freedom. It stands for the unity and gratitude of the nation towards its defenders.

Cracks and Repairs

Over time, the marble of the Tomb developed some cracks. These cracks were carefully repaired to make sure the monument stays strong and beautiful for future generations. The repairs were done with great care to preserve this important national treasure.

Images for kids

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  Tomb as of November 11, 1922. The Tomb of 1931 would occupy this same location.

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  Secretary of War Dwight F. Davis (left) and Major General B. F. Cheatham, Quartermaster General of the U.S. Army, inspect the accepted model and design for the completion of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (1928). The design by sculptor Thomas Hudson Jones and architect Lorimer Rich was selected after a competition in which 73 designs were submitted.

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  The World War I Unknown arriving at the Washington Navy Yard, 1921 (colorized).

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  Dedicated during the 1999 National POW/MIA Recognition Day, the inscription on the empty crypt of the Vietnam Unknown now reads "Honoring and Keeping Faith with America's Missing Servicemen 1958–1975".

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  Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Guard Identification Badge.

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  Changing of the Guard, 2005.

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  A crack can be seen underneath the words "An American" and above the word "Soldier."

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  October 21, 2011: Completed repair of the cracks in the Tomb.

See also

In Spanish: Tumba del soldado desconocido (Arlington) para niños