Arlington National Cemetery-Arlington, VA

If you're ever in Virginia or Washington D.C. you should definitely visit the Arlington National Cemetery.The cemetery was established 150 years ago on June 15, 1864. It was created out of necessity for the soldiers lost during the Civil War. Today it is a shrine to the numerous men and women who have survived during times of war and peace for our beloved country. 

This is from our trip in 2011.

Now I've been to the Houston National Cemetery to visit my Grandpa and Uncle's grave, but being at Arlington it is a once in a lifetime experience. To see that many graves in one place puts things into perspective. This is a place to visit and show your respects. 

There are two things you must see while there: the eternal flame and the changing of the guard. The eternal flame is at the grave site of John F. Kennedy and was put in at the request of his wife, Jackie.
The flame has only been extinguished a few times once when holy water was spilled on it and once by a heavy rain. Both times the flame was relit by hand.

At the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier it has been guarded since July 2, 1937 continuously. Inclement weather, terrorist attacks, and other events do not cause the watch to cease. The Soldiers from the 3rd Infantry Regiment "The Old Guard" protect the tomb day and night. The soldiers who walk the mat do not wear rank, so they won't outrank the "Unknowns."

The soldiers duty is not only ceremonial but they will confront anyone trying to cross the barriers or people who are disrespectful/loud.

Arlington National Cemetery is open 365 days a year in April-Sept from 8am-7pm, Oct-March 8am-5pm. There is a charge for parking and there may be a charge to get in but that can be found on their site!