The public can once again visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery.
The move is part of a gradual reopening of the cemetery due to improving COVID-19 conditions and is an important element of the yearlong centennial commemoration for the tomb, which culminates this Nov. 11, an ANC release states.
The tomb reopened March 9, after being closed for 11 months due to COVID-19 restrictions and renovation work. The public may visit the tomb during ANC’s regular operating hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
“ANC staff continues to monitor and enhance all aspects of the cemetery in order to prepare for a full opening in the near future,” the release reads.
The next step in the reopening process will expand access to ANC and builds upon previous efforts such as the resumption of tram tours and graveside shuttle service, visitation to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Gravesite, and a limited reopening of the ANC Welcome Center.
Visitors can watch the changing of the guard and pay their respects to the unknowns at the tomb. A one-way pedestrian route begins at Memorial Drive (near the west steps of Memorial Amphitheater) and guides visitors to the south walkway for entrance.
Only 150 visitors are allowed on the plaza stairs at any one time, in order to facilitate social distancing. Visitors will exit to the north side of Memorial Amphitheater.
Visitors and ANC staff are also required to wear face coverings.
ANC “will continue to make risk- and conditions-based decisions in order to protect our workforce and the visiting public while ensuring a world-class visitor experience at Arlington National Cemetery,” said the release.
Under ANC’s restricted operations, large groups and bus tours continue to be prohibited from accessing the cemetery. The exhibits in the Memorial Amphitheater Display Room and Welcome Center remain closed to” the public. The Amphitheater remains closed to the public due to ongoing restoration work. Public wreath ceremonies at the tomb remain suspended.
You can also visit the cemetery virtually through the ANC Education Program.
Reach Julia LeDoux at Julia@connectingvets.com.
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