Get set to walk in the footsteps of history.
For the first time in nearly 100 years, the public will be able to walk on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Plaza and lay flowers in front of the Unknown Soldier on Nov. 9 and 10.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Centennial Commemoration Public Flower Ceremony, a two-day event, will be free and open to the public and will allow you to personally pay their respects to the Unknown Soldier.
This is a rare opportunity for the public to walk next to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a privilege otherwise given only to the sentinels of the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, “The Old Guard,” said Karen Durham-Aguilera, executive director of Army National Military Cemeteries and Arlington National Cemetery.
“As the stewards of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, it’s our honor to lead the centennial commemoration of this site,” she said. “The Tomb has served as the heart of Arlington National Cemetery. It is a people’s memorial that inspires reflection on service, valor, sacrifice and mourning. As a sacred memorial site and the grave of three unknown American service members, the Tomb connects visitors with the legacy of the U.S. armed forces throughout the nation’s history.”
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The public flower ceremony information and instructions include:
Registration is required here.
The flower ceremony will be held Nov. 9, and Nov. 10.
The hours to participate are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Visitors are encouraged to bring their own flowers, but complimentary roses, gerbera daisies and sunflowers will be distributed.
Trams will be available free of charge for the public to participate in the ceremony at the Memorial Amphitheater. Follow all signage and staff directions to access the Memorial Amphitheater and Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
The flower ceremony will start on Nov. 9 at 8 a.m. with representatives from the Crow Nation placing flowers at the Tomb and reciting the prayer given 100 years ago by American-Indian Chief Plenty Coups.
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Interpretive talks will be given from the Memorial Amphitheater west steps (side closest to Mast of the Maine Memorial) throughout the day.
Educational and directional signage will be along Memorial Avenue and at the Memorial Amphitheater.
This event will take place rain or shine and is ADA accessible as well as stroller friendly.
The ceremony will end on Nov. 10 at 4 p.m. with the original benediction recited by the Army Chief of Chaplains, Maj. Gen. Thomas L. Solhjem.
All visitors must have a government-issued ID for access. Cemetery entrances include: Ord and Weitzel Gate (pedestrians only); 123 Service Complex (pedestrians only); Old Post Chapel Gate (Family pass holder vehicle access/General public pedestrian access); Memorial Ave (Family pass holder vehicle access); Welcome Center (pedestrian access)
Family pass holders will not be allowed to drive near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier or park on nearby streets. Presentation of family pass for your loved one’s grave location will be required when driving near the Memorial Amphitheater.
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On Veterans Day, the public will be invited to observe a joint full honors procession (meant to replicate elements of the World War I Unknown Soldier’s 1921 funeral procession), and a joint service flyover (aerial review) with aircraft from all branches of the military. The public is invited to stand along a special procession route to participate.
Due to COVID protocols, the Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs is hosting an invitation-only Presidential Armed Forces Full Honor Wreath-Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the National Veterans Day Observance at the Memorial Amphitheater
“Throughout this year, the cemetery has held events leading up to the centennial ceremony,” said Charles “Ray” Alexander Jr., superintendent of Arlington National Cemetery. “We encourage the public to experience and participate in the commemorative events in many ways, both at the cemetery and virtually.”
Other events include:
Two new complementary historical museum exhibits at the ANC Welcome Center and the Memorial Amphitheater Display Room, including interpretive panels, artifacts and historic photographs and films. Online videos of both exhibits are currently in development and will be available on ANC’s website and social media platforms, @arlingtonnatl.
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The release of a free educational module for students and lifelong learners of all ages titled “The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier,” which is available here.
Visit here for the most up-to-date news and information, including entrance and security requirements regarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Centennial Commemoration.
Additional information regarding the National Veterans Day Observance, virtual attendance and on-line viewing information will be made available soon.
Reach Julia LeDoux at Julia@connectingvets.com.