Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Centennial

We view the Centennial not only as a celebration to remember the burial of the World War I Unknown Soldier, but an opportunity to reflect on what the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier means to America. In three instances since 1921, the remains of unknown servicemen have been interred to the west of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in individual crypts, with the remains of the Vietnam Unknown Soldier removed after modern science identified the serviceman. This crypt remains empty, but a marker was placed honoring all those still missing in action (MIA/POW) which underscores the larger purpose of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and rings true to the legislation that created the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by Congressman Hamilton Fish, who viewed the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as a focal point to bring all Americans together—that its meaning be not limited to the Great War and the exclusive claim of that War’s veterans.

Learn more: https://www.tombguard.org/centennial