Many Americans wonder, “What is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?” This sacred monument, located in Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, stands as one of the most powerful symbols of honor, sacrifice, and national unity in the United States.
For more than a century, the Tomb has paid tribute to unidentified service members who gave their lives in defense of the nation. As of 2025, it continues to be guarded day and night, serving as a place of reflection for millions of visitors each year.
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The Origin: A Promise to Remember the Unnamed
The story of the Tomb began after World War I, when thousands of soldiers died overseas and many could not be identified. To honor them, Congress approved the creation of a national monument dedicated to one “unknown” American soldier.
On November 11, 1921 — the third anniversary of the end of World War I — the remains of an unidentified soldier were laid to rest with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery. This marked the birth of what would become the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
The marble tomb bears an inscription that captures its solemn purpose:
“Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God.”
Those words have echoed through generations, reminding Americans that even when a name is lost, a hero’s sacrifice is never forgotten.
How the Tomb Grew Over Time
Originally dedicated to one fallen World War I soldier, the Tomb later expanded to honor the unknown from other wars as well.
- 1958: The remains of unknown soldiers from World War II and the Korean War were placed beside the World War I tomb.
- 1984: A Vietnam War unknown was added, but in 1998, advanced DNA testing identified him as 1st Lt. Michael Joseph Blassie of the U.S. Air Force. His remains were returned to his family, and the Vietnam crypt remains empty — now representing all who are still missing in action.
Today, three unknown American soldiers rest at the Tomb, symbolizing the courage and sacrifice of every service member whose identity remains lost to history.
The Tomb’s Design and Meaning
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is made from solid white Yule marble quarried in Colorado. It weighs more than 79 tons and stands prominently on the Arlington hillside, overlooking Washington, D.C.
The design features deep symbolism:
- Three carved figures — Peace, Victory, and Valor — represent the ideals of the United States.
- Six wreaths carved into the sides stand for the six major campaigns fought by U.S. forces in World War I.
- The inscription reminds all who visit that the Tomb honors every unidentified hero who has ever served.
The simplicity of the monument gives it power. It stands in silence, yet speaks louder than words about duty, loss, and remembrance.
The Guard That Never Sleeps
One of the most awe-inspiring aspects of the Tomb is that it has been continuously guarded 24 hours a day, 365 days a year since 1937.
This solemn duty belongs to the elite 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, known as “The Old Guard.” Sentinels who serve here undergo months of intense training. They must meet strict standards in discipline, dress, and precision.
The Changing of the Guard ceremony is a display of both military skill and respect.
- The guard marches 21 steps across the mat — a number symbolizing the 21-gun salute, the highest military honor.
- After turning, the guard pauses 21 seconds before continuing, creating a rhythm of respect and perfection.
- The ceremony repeats every hour from October to March, and every 30 minutes from April through September.
Regardless of weather, season, or national events, the Tomb is never left unguarded — a true testament to America’s enduring promise to honor its heroes.
A Sacred Place of National Unity
Every year, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier becomes the centerpiece for national ceremonies on Veterans Day and Memorial Day. The President of the United States traditionally lays a wreath at the site, paying tribute to those who gave everything for freedom.
During these ceremonies, moments of silence fall over the crowd as the bugle sounds “Taps.” It’s a sound that carries across the cemetery, reminding every listener of the cost of liberty.
The Tomb stands not only for those buried there but also for every soldier, sailor, airman, and Marine who has gone missing or remains unidentified. It represents all branches of the U.S. military and serves as a symbol of collective gratitude and respect.
A Look Inside the Experience
For anyone visiting Arlington National Cemetery, the Tomb is one of the most emotional stops. The surrounding plaza offers panoramic views of the capital, but the atmosphere here is quiet and reverent.
What visitors should know:
- The site is open year-round during Arlington Cemetery hours.
- The Changing of the Guard ceremony occurs every half hour during warmer months and hourly during the colder season.
- Visitors are asked to remain silent and respectful during ceremonies.
- The Memorial Amphitheater next to the Tomb hosts national services attended by veterans, families, and officials.
Standing before the Tomb, most visitors describe a profound sense of gratitude — not only for the soldiers who rest there but for all who have served the nation selflessly.
The Tomb’s Continuing Legacy in 2025
As of November 2025, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier continues to be a vital part of America’s remembrance culture. It is visited by more than three million people each year, from veterans and school groups to international dignitaries.
Recent preservation efforts have focused on maintaining the marble structure and improving accessibility for visitors. The U.S. Army’s Old Guard remains committed to its 24/7 watch, ensuring that the promise made in 1921 — that these heroes will never be forgotten — is kept.
Even in today’s fast-paced world, the Tomb reminds Americans of values that endure: sacrifice, loyalty, and unity. It’s a place where differences disappear, and only gratitude remains.
Quick Facts: Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia |
| Established | November 11, 1921 |
| Material | White Yule Marble |
| Weight | 79 tons |
| Guarded Since | 1937 (24/7 continuous duty) |
| Guarding Unit | 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (“The Old Guard”) |
| Unknown Soldiers Interred | 3 (WWI, WWII, Korean War) |
| Visitor Attendance | 3+ million annually |
Why the Tomb Still Matters
So, what is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier? It’s more than a memorial. It’s a national vow — a living promise that America will always honor its fallen, even when their names are lost to time.
The Tomb represents unity in a divided world, reminding everyone who visits that freedom is not free. Each step of the guard, each echo of silence, and each visitor’s tear reinforce the same truth: these heroes gave everything, and they will forever be remembered.
What does the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier mean to you? Share your thoughts and honor the legacy of America’s fallen heroes in the comments below.
