Tomb of the Unknowns to Remain Guarded During Hurricane Sandy

Dillon Cheverere12 years ago

Hurricane Sandy has been described with words like “historic,” “monumental” and “deadly,” and she is currently bearing down on the east coast with nasty intentions. Arlington Cemetery and the Tomb of the Unknowns is in the destruction path. Our U.S. military members, and the guards that protect the Tomb 24 hours per day, 365 days per year, remain unfazed by the certain danger that lies ahead..

The Tomb of the Unknown is located within Arlington National Cemetery. Intended to serve as a reminder of the many servicemen and women that are missing, the tomb holds the remains of an unknown soldier from World War I, World War II, Korea and, until 1998, Vietnam.

The Tomb, which is one of most popular tourist attractions in Arlington National Cemetery is guarded 24 hours a day 365 days a year. The guards were originally ordered to guard the tomb in 1926 and only during daylight hours because some visitors were not treating the tomb with the respect and reverence they felt it deserved. In 1937, the guards began 24 hour a day duty guarding the tomb and that has continued to this day.

To be selected for this duty is considered a great honor and there are very strict requirements that must be met. In fact, 80% of the soldiers who seek this duty are not selected.

They are not leaving their post during the hurricane.

This news shouldn’t be all that surprising considering the unwavering dedication of our soldiers, but it’s noteworthy nonetheless. I love our military.

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