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The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: A Tribute to Sacrifice

Explore the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Fort Myer, VA - a poignant symbol of sacrifice and honor within Arlington National Cemetery.

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The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Fort Myer, Virginia, is a solemn monument that honors the sacrifices of unidentified soldiers. A visit here is a poignant reminder of courage and valor, set against the backdrop of Arlington National Cemetery's serene beauty.

A brief summary to The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Local tips

  • Arrive early to secure a good spot for viewing the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the cemetery covers a large area and involves a fair amount of walking.
  • Check the official website for any schedule changes or special events before your visit.
  • Be respectful of the solemn nature of the site; maintain a quiet demeanor during your visit.
  • Consider visiting during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Laurel, walk to the nearest bus stop on Route 1. Take the Metrobus B30 towards Greenbelt Metrorail Station. Ride for about 25 minutes until you reach the Greenbelt Metro Station. Once there, transfer to the Washington Metro's Green Line towards Branch Avenue. Continue on the Green Line for approximately 30 minutes until you reach the L'Enfant Plaza Metro Station. From L'Enfant Plaza, transfer to the Blue Line towards Franconia-Springfield and ride for about 10 more minutes until you reach the Arlington Cemetery Metro Station. Exit the station and follow the signs to Arlington National Cemetery. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is located within the cemetery grounds.

  • Train

    From Laurel, head to the Laurel Train Station. Take a MARC train on the Penn Line towards Washington, D.C. The journey takes about 25 minutes. Disembark at the Union Station in D.C. From Union Station, walk to the nearby Red Line Metro Station and take the Metro towards Glenmont. Travel for 3 stops and get off at the Gallery Place-Chinatown station. There, transfer to the Yellow Line towards Huntington. Ride for 2 stops until you reach the Pentagon station. From the Pentagon, it's about a 15-minute walk to Arlington Cemetery where you will find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

  • Walking and Metro

    Starting in downtown Laurel, walk to the Laurel Town Center and locate the nearest bus stop. Take the Metrobus B30 to Greenbelt Metro Station. From there, hop on the Green Line Metro towards Branch Avenue and ride until you reach L'Enfant Plaza. Change to the Blue Line towards Franconia-Springfield and disembark at the Arlington Cemetery Metro Station. After exiting, follow the signs within Arlington Cemetery to reach the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is nearby.

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Discover more about The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is one of the most revered monuments in the United States, located within Arlington National Cemetery in Fort Myer, Virginia. This hallowed site pays tribute to unidentified American soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country. Established in 1921, the tomb stands as a powerful symbol of honor and remembrance, drawing visitors from around the world who come to pay their respects to fallen heroes. Visitors are captivated by the disciplined precision of the Sentinels of the Tomb, who perform the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a breathtaking display of military honor that occurs every hour on the hour in the winter and every half hour in the summer. This ceremony, along with the solemn atmosphere surrounding the tomb, evokes deep feelings of respect and gratitude for those who served and sacrificed their lives in the defense of freedom. The location is not just a monument but also a part of a broader narrative of American history and valor. As you wander through Arlington National Cemetery, you’ll find countless graves and memorials, each telling a story of sacrifice. The tranquil beauty of the cemetery, coupled with its rich history, makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking to understand the profound impact of war on individuals and families. Ensure to take your time, reflect, and appreciate the significance of this sacred place, which stands as an enduring reminder of the courage that defines the spirit of the nation. The site is open daily, and it is advisable to check the schedule for the Changing of the Guard to ensure you are able to witness this moving ceremony. The cemetery itself is expansive, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk as you explore the rich history encapsulated in this serene and respectful environment.

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