An Honor

  

It has been almost five years since we called ourselves a "military family".  That life had many challenges but also rewarded us with wonderful friends, a journey to the gorgeous Pacific Northwest (which we loved), and a new definition of "home".  I am grateful for the experience and the pride I have in our armed services because we know so many people who sacrifice daily.  But a trip to Arlington National Cemetery on Saturday amplified my gratitude for the freedom we enjoy.  This quiet respite just across the Potomac River from our nation's capital was so peaceful and beautiful after a recent snowfall.  It was amazing to see that each and every grave was marked with a live Christmas wreath, a tribute to those who lost their lives in combat since WWI, and a reminder that each one is still being honored today.

The most impressive sight was the Tomb of the Unknowns (aka Tomb of the Unknown Soldier).  To have only experienced the sight on television as a president lays a wreath on Memorial Day is to believe that it is just another marble slab among many in D.C..  In truth, The Tomb is on the most scenic hill and it is absolutely silent except for the occasional bird overhead and the click of a soldier's shoes. 

According to the Arlington National Cemetery website, "The Tomb Guard marches 21 steps down the black mat behind the Tomb, turns, faces east for 21 seconds, turns and faces north for 21 seconds, then takes 21 steps down the mat and repeats the process. After the turn, the sentinel executes a sharp "shoulder-arms" movement to place the weapon on the shoulder closest to the visitors to signify that the sentinel stands between the Tomb and any possible threat. Twenty-one was chosen because it symbolizes the highest military honor that can be bestowed -- the 21-gun salute."

This soldier, a member of the Old Guard from the 3rd Infantry Regiment,  changes out on the hour in the wintertime.  Though we didn't get to witness the changing of the guard while we were at The Tomb (the 3 year olds could only be quiet for so long), this impressive display occurs during and after park hours, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.  

So, today when you are snuggled up in your warm homes warring off the cold, a soldier will be on guard.  And tonight, when temps in D.C. are expected to only be near sub-zero temperatures, the guard will still change on the hour.  Nothing could be more honorable.