Arlington National Cemetery, located in Arlington, Virginia, is the final resting place for many of America’s fallen heroes. The cemetery is a revered site, symbolizing the nation’s gratitude and respect for those who have served in the armed forces. However, the question of who can be buried at Arlington is a common one, with many people assuming that it is open to all veterans. In reality, the eligibility criteria for burial at Arlington National Cemetery are quite specific, and not everyone who has served in the military qualifies. In this article, we will delve into the history of Arlington, the eligibility criteria for burial, and the significance of being laid to rest in this sacred place.
History of Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the Civil War. The land on which the cemetery sits was originally owned by George Washington Parke Custis, the step-grandson of George Washington. During the Civil War, the Union Army seized the land, and it was converted into a military cemetery in 1864. The first military burial took place on May 13, 1864, and since then, the cemetery has become the final resting place for over 400,000 active duty service members, veterans, and their families.
Evolution of Eligibility Criteria
Over the years, the eligibility criteria for burial at Arlington National Cemetery have evolved to reflect the changing needs and demographics of the US military. Initially, the cemetery was open to all Union soldiers who died during the Civil War. However, as the US became involved in other conflicts, such as World War I and World War II, the eligibility criteria were expanded to include service members who died in those wars. Today, the eligibility criteria for burial at Arlington are governed by federal law and include a range of conditions, such as death during active duty, death as a result of a service-connected disability, and receipt of certain awards or honors.
Eligibility Categories
There are several categories of eligibility for burial at Arlington National Cemetery, including:
Any member of the US Armed Forces who dies on active duty
Any veteran who has served honorably and has a service-connected disability
Any Medal of Honor recipient
Any Purple Heart recipient
Any veteran who has served in a war or conflict and has been awarded certain honors or awards
Eligibility Criteria in Detail
The eligibility criteria for burial at Arlington National Cemetery are outlined in Title 32 of the Code of Federal Regulations. To be eligible for burial, an individual must meet one of the following conditions:
They must have died on active duty
They must have died as a result of a service-connected disability
They must have received a Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross, Air Force Cross, or Army Distinguished Service Medal
They must have served in a war or conflict and have been awarded certain honors or awards, such as the Purple Heart or Prisoner of War Medal
They must have been a prisoner of war
They must have died while a prisoner of war
Application Process
The application process for burial at Arlington National Cemetery is typically initiated by the next of kin or the funeral home. The application must include a range of documentation, such as proof of military service, discharge papers, and a death certificate. The application is then reviewed by the Arlington National Cemetery staff, who verify the individual’s eligibility for burial. If the application is approved, the family will be contacted to arrange a date and time for the burial service.
Funeral Services
Arlington National Cemetery offers a range of funeral services, including full honors funeral services, which include a horse-drawn caisson, a band, and a firing party. The cemetery also offers a range of memorial services, including inurnment services for those who have chosen cremation. The cemetery’s staff work closely with the family to ensure that the funeral service is personalized and reflects the individual’s military service and achievements.
Significance of Being Buried at Arlington
Being buried at Arlington National Cemetery is a significant honor, one that is reserved for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country. The cemetery is a symbol of the nation’s gratitude and respect for those who have served in the armed forces, and it is a place where families and loved ones can come to pay their respects and remember the sacrifices of their loved ones. For those who are buried at Arlington, it is a final resting place that is steeped in history and tradition, and it is a reminder of the enduring legacy of American patriotism and service.
Visitor Information
Arlington National Cemetery is open to visitors 365 days a year, and it is a popular destination for those who wish to pay their respects to America’s fallen heroes. The cemetery offers a range of amenities, including a visitor center, a museum, and a range of memorial services and events. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the cemetery, which includes stops at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the graves of President John F. Kennedy and the Apollo 11 astronauts, and the Nurses Memorial.
Conclusion
In conclusion, being buried at Arlington National Cemetery is a significant honor that is reserved for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country. The eligibility criteria for burial are specific, and not everyone who has served in the military qualifies. However, for those who do meet the eligibility criteria, Arlington National Cemetery offers a range of funeral services and memorial options that are designed to honor the individual’s military service and achievements. Whether you are a veteran, a family member, or simply a visitor, Arlington National Cemetery is a place that is steeped in history and tradition, and it is a reminder of the enduring legacy of American patriotism and service.
Arlington National Cemetery is a sacred place, one that is dedicated to the memory of America’s fallen heroes. It is a place where families and loved ones can come to pay their respects, to remember the sacrifices of their loved ones, and to find comfort in the knowledge that their loved ones are buried in a place that is steeped in history and tradition. As we reflect on the significance of Arlington National Cemetery, we are reminded of the importance of honoring our nation’s veterans, and of the need to ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten.
The history and significance of Arlington National Cemetery are a testament to the enduring legacy of American patriotism and service. The cemetery is a reminder of the sacrifices that have been made by America’s service members, and it is a symbol of the nation’s gratitude and respect for those who have served in the armed forces. As we look to the future, we must continue to honor the memory of America’s fallen heroes, and to ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten. By doing so, we can ensure that the legacy of Arlington National Cemetery continues to inspire future generations of Americans, and that the cemetery remains a sacred place where families and loved ones can come to pay their respects and remember the sacrifices of their loved ones.
In order to provide a comprehensive understanding of the eligibility criteria, the following table summarizes the key points:
| Category | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| Active Duty | Death on active duty |
| Veterans | Service-connected disability, certain awards or honors |
| Medal of Honor Recipients | Receipt of the Medal of Honor |
| Prisoners of War | Death while a prisoner of war |
Overall, Arlington National Cemetery is a national treasure, one that is steeped in history and tradition. It is a place where families and loved ones can come to pay their respects, to remember the sacrifices of their loved ones, and to find comfort in the knowledge that their loved ones are buried in a place that is dedicated to the memory of America’s fallen heroes. By understanding the eligibility criteria for burial at Arlington, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the significance of this sacred place, and for the enduring legacy of American patriotism and service.
What is the significance of Arlington National Cemetery?
Arlington National Cemetery is a military cemetery in the United States, and it holds great historical and cultural significance. The cemetery serves as a final resting place for many American service members, veterans, and their families. Arlington is also the site of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is a symbol of respect and honor for unidentified American service members who have died in combat. The cemetery’s grounds are carefully maintained to ensure a dignified and peaceful environment for visitors and families of the deceased.
The significance of Arlington National Cemetery extends beyond its role as a burial ground. It is also a place of remembrance and reflection, where Americans can come to pay their respects to those who have served and sacrificed for their country. The cemetery is home to numerous memorials and monuments, including the Arlington Memorial Amphitheater, which hosts memorial services and ceremonies throughout the year. Overall, Arlington National Cemetery is a sacred place that represents the values of patriotism, duty, and sacrifice that are at the heart of American culture and identity.
Who is eligible to be buried at Arlington National Cemetery?
To be eligible for burial at Arlington National Cemetery, an individual must meet certain criteria established by the Department of the Army. Generally, eligibility is reserved for members of the US Armed Forces who have died on active duty, as well as veterans who have received certain awards or decorations, such as the Medal of Honor or the Purple Heart. Additionally, members of the US Armed Forces who have died as a result of their service, but not necessarily in combat, may also be eligible for burial at Arlington.
The eligibility criteria for burial at Arlington National Cemetery also include certain family members of eligible service members and veterans. For example, spouses and minor children of eligible individuals may be buried alongside their loved ones at Arlington. However, eligibility is not automatic, and each request for burial must be reviewed and approved by the Department of the Army. The approval process involves verifying an individual’s military service and awards, as well as ensuring that they meet the established eligibility criteria. In some cases, exceptions may be made for individuals who have made significant contributions to the US Armed Forces or who have been awarded certain honors or decorations.
What is the process for requesting burial at Arlington National Cemetery?
The process for requesting burial at Arlington National Cemetery typically begins with a funeral home or a representative of the deceased, who submits a request to the cemetery’s administrators. The request must include documentation of the individual’s military service, as well as proof of their eligibility for burial at Arlington. This documentation may include discharge papers, awards and decorations, and other relevant records. Once the request has been submitted, it is reviewed by the Department of the Army to verify the individual’s eligibility and to ensure that all necessary documentation is in order.
If the request is approved, the funeral home or representative of the deceased will work with the cemetery’s staff to schedule a burial date and time. On the day of the burial, a full military honors ceremony will be conducted, which includes a flag-draped casket, a firing party, and a bugler playing “Taps.” The ceremony is a meaningful way to pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of the deceased, and it is an important part of the Arlington National Cemetery burial experience. After the ceremony, the grave will be marked with a headstone, which bears the individual’s name, rank, and dates of service.
Can anyone visit Arlington National Cemetery?
Yes, Arlington National Cemetery is open to the public and welcomes visitors from all over the world. The cemetery is a place of historical and cultural significance, and it offers a unique opportunity for visitors to pay their respects to America’s fallen heroes. Visitors can walk the grounds, visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and attend a Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place every 30 minutes during the summer months and every hour during the winter months. The cemetery is also home to numerous memorials and monuments, including the Arlington Memorial Amphitheater, which hosts memorial services and ceremonies throughout the year.
Visitors to Arlington National Cemetery are asked to be respectful of the grounds and the people who are buried there. This means dressing modestly, turning off cell phones, and refraining from taking pictures or videos during memorial services and ceremonies. Visitors are also encouraged to follow the rules and regulations posted at the cemetery, which include staying on designated paths and not touching or damaging the headstones or other memorial structures. By being respectful and considerate, visitors can help to preserve the dignity and sanctity of the cemetery, while also paying their respects to the men and women who have served and sacrificed for their country.
How are gravesites assigned at Arlington National Cemetery?
Gravesites at Arlington National Cemetery are assigned based on a variety of factors, including the individual’s eligibility for burial, their military service, and the availability of space. Generally, gravesites are assigned in a specific section of the cemetery, which is designated for members of the US Armed Forces who have died on active duty or as a result of their service. The assignment of gravesites is managed by the cemetery’s administrators, who work to ensure that each grave is marked with a headstone and that the grounds are carefully maintained to provide a dignified and peaceful environment for visitors.
The assignment of gravesites at Arlington National Cemetery is also influenced by the individual’s personal preferences, as well as the preferences of their family. For example, some individuals may request to be buried in a specific section of the cemetery, or alongside other family members or fellow service members. The cemetery’s administrators will do their best to accommodate these requests, while also ensuring that the gravesite assignment is consistent with the cemetery’s rules and regulations. Overall, the assignment of gravesites at Arlington National Cemetery is a thoughtful and deliberate process that reflects the dignity and respect that is owed to the men and women who have served and sacrificed for their country.
Are there any special ceremonies or events held at Arlington National Cemetery?
Yes, Arlington National Cemetery is the site of numerous special ceremonies and events throughout the year. One of the most notable events is the Memorial Day ceremony, which takes place on the last Monday in May and honors the men and women who have died in combat. The ceremony includes a presidential address, a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and a parade of troops. The cemetery is also the site of Veterans Day ceremonies, which take place on November 11th and honor the service and sacrifice of all American veterans.
In addition to these major ceremonies, Arlington National Cemetery also hosts a variety of smaller events and wreath-laying ceremonies throughout the year. For example, the cemetery is the site of an annual Christmas wreath-laying ceremony, which takes place in December and honors the memory of America’s fallen heroes during the holiday season. The cemetery is also the site of ceremonies and events hosted by individual military units, veterans’ organizations, and other groups. These events are an important way to pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of America’s men and women in uniform, and they reflect the cemetery’s status as a sacred place of remembrance and reflection.