The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Virginia, United States
5.0 (4.107 reviews) Spent < 1 hour Ranking #1 in Arlington Historic Walking Areas
Moving
Guarded around the clock by the Army's 3rd infantry, this memorial in Arlington National Cemetery honors unidentified American soldiers from the two World Wars and the Korean War.
Address
1 Wilson Ave Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA 22211
Mobile
Website
https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/Explore/Tomb-of-the-Unknown-Soldier
Current local date and time now
Thursday, May 09, 2024, 5:22
User Ratings
5.0 based on (4.107 reviews)
Excellent
91%
Good
8%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Reviews
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4helenandpaul13 5:00 PM Jul 24, 2022
An essential part of any visit
When we visited the memorial mum's guided tour stopped here. I visited with my daughter and we stopped and watched for a while. A more detailed explanation is provided in my notes of the day. In summary, watch the guard walk 21 steps, pause for 21 seconds and then Wal another 21 steps before turning and repeating the action. The guard changes regularly. As we were watching from the balcony above, a hearse drove by below followed by a guard of honour.
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4jessicafb_16 5:00 PM Jul 8, 2021
worth seeing at least once in your life
A very solemn tradition with strict protocols. They change the guard every 30 mins, and sometimes have wreath laying ceremonies in between. The guards walk the same route so often they have worn down the marble in those areas, and have a special mat to help with this. They do it in all weather too. They make an elaborate show of weapon inspection, sharp turns, heel clicks, and salutes. It can be a bit boring for kids, or those that don't really see the point. I like the idea of "it could be anyone in there" and I know it's quite an honor to get this guard duty. When we were watching the guard had to yell at the crowd to keep silent and respectful. It was unnerving even though I wasn't one that was talking.
