Ellen Fuller talks Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: A Symbol of Honor and Sacrifice

A Brief History

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a monument in Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia, dedicated to American service members who have died without being identified. The tomb was established in 1921 after World War I, and four unknown American servicemen from the war were buried there. In 1958, an unknown serviceman from the Korean War was added, and in 1984, an unknown serviceman from the Vietnam War was added.

The Tomb Guard

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is guarded 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, by the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard). The Tomb Guards are selected for their exceptional military bearing and their ability to perform the precise and demanding duties of guarding the tomb. They must memorize a long list of protocols and procedures, and they must be able to endure long hours of standing and marching in all weather conditions.

The Changing of the Guard

The Changing of the Guard ceremony is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Washington, D.C. The ceremony takes place every hour on the hour, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. During the ceremony, two Tomb Guards march to the tomb, salute it, and then take up their positions on either side of it. The old guard then marches off, and the new guard takes over.

The Tomb as a Symbol

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a powerful symbol of honor and sacrifice. It represents the millions of American men and women who have served their country and who have died in defense of our freedom. The tomb is also a reminder of the families who have lost loved ones in war.

Ellen Fuller's Visit

In 2018, Ellen Fuller, a Gold Star mother, visited the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Her son, Marine Corps Lance Corporal Jonathan Fuller, was killed in action in Afghanistan in 2010. Fuller said that visiting the tomb was a "moving and emotional" experience. "It was an honor to be there and to see the Tomb Guard," Fuller said. "They are so dedicated and professional, and they do such a wonderful job of honoring our fallen heroes." The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices that our military men and women have made. It is a place where we can come to honor their memory and to thank them for their service.