|
The Guards at the Tomb of the Unknowns
The Tomb of the Unknowns is guarded rain or shine, 24 hours a day – every day – an endless tribute to soldiers who lost not only their lives, but their identities. At this very moment, a lonely sentinel marches the path in front of the Tomb – 21 paces, pause for 21 counts, then return 21 paces – back and forth through the coldest nights or the warmest days. It says something about our nation when the most hallowed portion of our most sacred shrine is dedicated to a group of individuals whose names and ranks we will never know. Some nations keep their “crown jewels” in untouchable glass museum cases; others erect elaborate shrines to individuals of greatness. America does too. Yet somehow it is significant that our greatest shrine – the tribute that stands above all others and is visible from almost any vantage point in our nation’s capitol – is a testament not to wealth or power, but to the price we are willing to pay to preserve liberty.
There are nearly 5000 “unknowns” that are honored at Arlington National Cemetery, all of whom made a contribution to our nation.
|
At the gates of Arlington National Cemetery, a simple sign reads that this is our nation’s “most sacred shrine.” The most hallowed portion of the cemetery is a small plot of land we know as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers.
The Honor Guard Creed “My dedication to this sacred duty is total and wholehearted. In the responsibility bestowed on me, never will I falter. And with my dignity and perseverance, my standard will remain perfection. Through the years of diligence and praise, and the discomfort of the elements, I will walk my tour in humble reverence to the best of my ability. It is he who commands the respect I protect. His bravery that made us so proud. Surrounded by well meaning crowds by day, alone in the thoughtful peace of night, this soldier will in honored Glory rest under my eternal vigilance.”
