Tombs of the Unknowns: Rememberance

As we come up to the anniversary of a very historical moment in American history I felt the need to write a little of what I know of the subject. When someone comments on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier my mind automatically goes to Arlington Cemetary; while researching this article though I came across some other tombs. In this article I will not only remind you of what sacrifices our men and women have made through time but also enlighten you of some tombs that are not as widely known.

On October 24th, 1921 Army SGT Edward Younger chose one of four caskets in Chalon-sur-Marne in France as the official "Unknown Soldier." He placed a white rose on top of the casket and remarked that a voice seemed to call to him and said "This is a pal of yours." This was to honor all of the men and women that we had lost in World War I that were unidentified. On November 9th of the same year the remains were shipped home to the U.S. Then on November 11th the soldier was interred at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia in a ceremony officiated by former President Harding. To this day The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is guarded. It is considered one of the highest honors to be selected as a guard for the tomb.

The Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldier is in Philladelphia, Pennsylvania. It stands in honor of all of the troops that died in the American Revolutionary War. Many of those troops were buried in mass graves on that very same park. George Washington's statue is gazing towards Independence Hall as an eternal flame glows brightly. The memorial was built in 1954 and stands proudly in memory of the men and women whom gave their life so that we can enjoy the country that we have today.

Tomb of the Unknown Confederate Soldier is the newest of all the tombs. It was revealed on June 6th, 1981. This tomb is dedicated to an unknown confederate soldier whoms remains were discovered by Rick Forte in 1979. This memorial was errected at Beauvoir in Biloxi, Mississippi, in Harrison County. The soldier was buried in a cypress casket and the words "Known but to God" are inscribed upon the tomb.

So as we near the anniversary of one of these memorials I would like to hold a moment of silence for every man, or woman that has stood up and fought for our great country. There is something to be said for the man or woman whom is willing to shed blood, sweat, tears and offer up the ultimate sacrifce in order for their great nation to be free. So to every verteran, or current soldier in every branch of military service I salute you.