The public will be allowed to walk up to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Plaza for the first time in nearly a century in the days before Veterans Day.
Arlington National Cemetery is hosting a two-day event on Nov. 9 and 10, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Centennial Commemoration Public Flower Ceremony, which will permit the public to pay its respects at the site personally.
VOLUNTEERS EMPTY THEIR RETIREMENT FUNDS TO SAVE AT-RISK AFGHANS
The public is not typically allowed to approach the tomb, which is guarded by the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, commonly referred to as the “Old Guard.”
“As the stewards of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, it’s our honor to lead the centennial commemoration of this site,” Karen Durham-Aguilera, executive director of Army National Military Cemeteries and Arlington National Cemetery, said in a statement.
“The Tomb has served as the heart of Arlington National Cemetery,” she added. “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.”
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER
Visitors are able to participate in the event from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both days and are encouraged to bring their own flowers, but the site will have complimentary roses, daisies, and sunflowers.
The first day of the event will begin with Crow Nation representatives placing flowers at the tomb, reciting the prayer given a century ago by American Indian Chief Plenty Coups.
