How many tomb guards are there?
There have been over 680 tomb guards awarded the badge since 1958 when we started counting. There are hundreds more from the year 1926 when the Army started guarding the Tomb. The 3rd US Infantry (The Old Guard) is the unit that has been given the duty of guarding the Tomb. It was given this sacred duty in 1948.
How many people visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier per year?
The Tomb of the Unknowns is part of the Arlington Memorial Amphitheater. The Memorial Amphitheater has hosted state funerals and Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies. Ceremonies are also held for Easter. About 5,000 people attend these holiday ceremonies each year.
When was the tomb of the Unknown Soldier created?
The following fact sheet continues with facts about Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Guards at Arlington National Cemetery. Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Guards Fact 1: In 1926, the first US Army soldier was posted to guard the memorial during cemetery hours.
How many hours does the tomb of the Unknown Soldier Guard work?
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Guards in Arlington National Cemetery perform their duties 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Their dedication to their sacred duty and their eternal vigilance is reflected in the ‘Sentinel’s Creed’. The following fact sheet continues with facts about Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Guards.
Is the tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington?
Despite the many distinguished and revered war heroes and two former U.S. Presidents buried there, there is nowhere within the hallowed grounds of Arlington National Cemetery that is more frequented by visitors than The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
How many levels are there in the tomb of the unknowns?
The bottom two levels are six granite sections each and the top at least nine blocks with a rectangular opening in the center of each level through which the unknown remains were placed through the tomb and into the ground below. A stone slab, rather than marble, covers the rectangular opening.