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Jodie B Jodie B
Member since:
November 08, 2006
Total points:
171 (Level 1)

Resolved Question

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Why is the tomb of the unknown soldier-Arlington guarded 24/7?

I know that they started guarding the tomb in 1937 but I wanted to know the reasoning behind it.
tmjf461 by tmjf461
Member since:
November 05, 2006
Total points:
819 (Level 2)

Best Answer - Chosen by Voters

It said that the decision to guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was a sign of respect to the fallen ones. Below I included a piece I received from a fellow veteran regarding the Tomb of the Unknown.

In 2003 as Hurricane Isabelle was approaching Washington , DC , our US Senate/House took 2 days off with anticipation of the storm. On the ABC evening news, it was reported that because of the dangers from the hurricane, the military members assigned the duty of guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier were given permission to suspend the assignment. They respectfully declined the offer, "No way, Sir!" Soaked to the skin,marching in the pelting rain of a tropical storm, they said that guarding the Tomb was not just an assignment, it was the highest honor that can be afforded to a serviceperson. The tomb has been patrolled continuously, 24/7, since 1930.

Hope this info helped..
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On the above information, where can I find the article ABC news put out? One of my friends emailed me an awesome article on this specific event including some absolutly incredible pictures, but the file was deleted and I lost it. Any guidance in locating this article?

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This is truly a honor. I give all due respect to the solider/officer that is on duty for this assignment

lovechild

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THIs has to be the best thing because the military never leaves any of thier fallen behind and this is a great example of it to its best Semper Fi

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There is a website, www.tombguard.org, where you can probably find a lot of the answers you are seeking.

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why is it called the unknown tomb i mean who ever is in there got a tomb they seem pretty important shouldn't we know

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This is all done out of honor and tribute to the fallen soldier. This is such a great honor.
From an Infantry Grunt

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If you have never seen this and go to DC this is a must see. Was there in January it was cold and the soldiers guarding the tomb are unbelievable. It makes you really respect what these men have done for our country and for us to be free,

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but shouldn't all fallen soldiers get tombs why just this one??

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In war there are many dead that are unidentifiable. The unknown soldier is all of those people. They sacrificed everything including their identity and now receive the highest respect.

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If this nation would ever realize the loss it has suffered in good men, it would be very hesitant to engage itself if war, much less allow itself to "lead" into a preemptive action.

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If only all of our people felt this way. Allegiance to Comrades, Country, and Creator is the way to show the respect and gratitude that we, as a people, can show the rest of the world what we truly represent.

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so there are a bunch of people down there not just one person??

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Try Urban Legends at
http://www.snopes.com/military/unknown.asp

and Arlington National Cemetery at
http://www.arlingtoncemetery.org/ceremonies/sentinelsotu.html and
http://www.arlingtoncemetery.org/ceremonies/sentineltraining.html

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"""""""""""""""""""""The reason for the 24 hour guard is because of the idiot that pissed on the statue last summer. And the next days after that he even went on t.v. to nationaly apolagize...""""""""""""""""""…

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"Soaked to the skin,marching in the pelting rain of a tropical storm, they said that guarding the Tomb was not just an assignment, it was the highest honor that can be afforded to a serviceperson."

Oh, I'm so touched. My typical American goosebumps are breaking-out, and I just popped a *****.

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To answer Blondie it is called the tomb of the Unknown Soldier because the remains of the soldiers inside of this tomb are exactly that, they are unknown. They are remains of one soldier from every war that America has participated in from WWII on that was not able to be identified.

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so there isn't just one person down there

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"Soaked to the skin,marching in the pelting rain of a tropical storm, they said that guarding the Tomb was not just an assignment, it was the highest honor that can be afforded to a serviceperson."

Oh, I'm so touched. My typical American goosebumps are breaking-out, and I just popped a b-o-n-e-r.

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It serves the purpose described above but it is also one of the rituals designed to indoctrinate people into loving our government welfare/warfare state. Grandiose rituals is what government agencies do to forment loyalty and love for big controlling government.

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Now that all American soldiers get DNA'd, I guess they'll be no more such tombs. (But plenty of more wars, though!)

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so like they take someone hand from say WW1 and someone arm from WW2??

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This has been guarded 24/7 since 1930 not since last summer. It was not for that reason it is out of respect for the fallen soldier. There are only a few bodies down there, it is not like it is a mass grave or anything.

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and make one person out of it all??

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Yes, thats correct, blondie.

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you would think it would be gone and deteriated by now,but its not forgotten!! so yeah,who and what is it??

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No noe exactly knows for sure. It could be just a sign of respect for all the soldiers that died fighting for America

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Since the soldier is "unknown", I am guessing there was a guard so that relatives of those MIA would not be tempted to find out if the soldier was theirs.
And there were grave robbers then and since there was no one to guard the unknown soldier, as there were for others, the military did it.

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k thanx everyonr for helpin me out now i know why there is such thing as a unknown tomb bye bye

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"THIs has to be the best thing because the military never leaves any of thier fallen behind and this is a great example of it to its best Semper Fi"

Talk is cheap, coward. ENLIST and put your body where your mouth is. Semper Idiota!

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www.snopes.com/military/unknow…
has some great information. If you ever get the chance to visit Arlington National Cemetary I highly recommend you watch the "Changing of the Guard" ceremony. It is awesome.

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If i recall history, the guard is set to keep souvenir hunters from chipping off a piece of the edifice. I believe that was happening back in the 30`s. The total respect part came ofter.

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Blondie......
Whats so confusing about this?

If they find a human body part to a solider and are unable to figure out who it is, its "unknow"

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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Census,_1930

In 1930 the population of Nevada was _______? what's your guess?

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because inside the tomb is the body of tupac and biggie smalls.

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It's not the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier...

It's the "Tomb of the Unknowns".

There are unknown soldiers from every major war burried in the tomb.

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Actualy that is not true, during Hurricane Isabelle they did leave the post for a little. It was explained to me when I went to Arkansas for Honor Guard school.

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Some of you people are nothing but a bunch of MORONS!!!

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The tomb is another wonderful symbol of this wonderful country. I respect it and the tradition greatly. Everyone that has the privelege to live here should....don't like it? Then leave....go see how Iraq or Iran like your citizenship!! Enjoy!

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The reason why the tomb guarding... it because there's something inside of it. It's a GOLD! Actually that's a door way to a tunnel where the GOLD is laid!

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So, was Blondie being serious, or just playing up to her name?

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why do you have to ruin the respect "michaelfromseattle 20..." sounds like you're american too

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it's guarded because this government is Ridiculous!

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http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-vetscor/1126293/posts
visit this web site for info on the Tomb of the Unknown. God Bless all Vets past and present.

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It is truly an honor to guard unknown tombs to soldiers.(Also A BIG Pay Money-wise)

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i think it is a waste of time and money. he needs no one to keep him safe he is not alive. the money to guard the unknow man could be put to some better use.

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Well, I've been to D.C. and I've seen them guard the Tomb of the Unknowns and I completely agree with all of you that say it's out of respect and I COMPLETELY agree with greg t! If you think is ridiculous, leave the nation, otherwise shut up!

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We may not know who they are, but we will always remember them for their sacrifice, above and beyond the call of duty, by patrolling the grounds around the Tomb of the Unknowns until the end of time.

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Wow, as unpatriotic as I am, I actually think that gaurding something like this is honor due. I think those that were brave enough to do what they were told knowing they may die should be thanked.

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Since 4/6/48 its been guarded 24 hrs & 365 days a yr regardless of weather. Many Americans visit the Memorial to watch soldiers pace 21 steps across a black mat on the west face of Tomb. It's a time honored ritual w/great precision & filled w/American pride. It shows respect for fallen military.

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I served in the United States Navy. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers is open to all US Service Members who have not been identified. That means it does not matter what war or conflict they died in. What matters is that they have a place of Honor to be layed to rest in!

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There's an alien lifeform in it and no one will tell you the truth.

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I was made to beleive the gold from Fort Know was secretly buried there because they could not trust the folks in Kentucky.

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Could the money put toward the upkeep our national monuments be put to a better use? Well, strictly speaking, it could be put toward something more "useful", provided you want to live in some kind of artless, totalitarian state with no regard to our history or our values.

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Someone answer my question. Search under Yahoo!, Instant Messenger Questions. Look for mine and ANSWER IT!!!!!!!!!

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It is a great tribute, God Bless our Troops.

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I had an uncle who when he got pissed off at some guy. He would sell a raffle ticket to him ( he was a good salesman) for the benefit of widow of the unknown soldier. If you'd like to buy one...

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The said place has a hidden history if you can view the Wikipidia the significance of that place. A continues observation regarding to a valuable secrects beneath . has something to do with scientific discovery long term.

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Its more of a tradition than anything else. Seriously though, would you want someone trying to piss on your grave, let alone someone who died for your country? I think not.
I do wonder how close other people can get to see it though

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Just like in philippines the monument of the Hero Jose Rizal is guarded 24/7 . not only that coz the said monument contain a kilos of Gold inside. This time remind me of the movie National Treasure. Film makers what do you think?

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that was really honorable for the soilders

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The Tomb of the Unknown soldier is guarded 24 hours a day 365 days a year out of respect for those who have fallen in wars. There is a great piece on this if you visit http://www.tombguard.org/current_events.htm. This gives quite a bit of information on the Tomb of the Unknown

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Good Morning,
I'm wondering if Greg T is in Texas . if so I would like to meet him and see if he is as brave in person ts a shame this waste of skin is allowed to post. Stupid is as he does.

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I am all for showing respect and gratitude...but why only to the unknown soldier? Most of the fallen soldiers are now not getting full military honors at their funerals because the Honor Guards are not being continued. Is it just for the pay to honor your comrades ?

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Way to live up to your name Blondie

I take it you were never strong in social studies/history?? haha

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I've seen it, and the changing of the gaurds ceremony thing is very moving. I think that this is probably the best thing the government has done. Respect is hard to come by, so the fact that the soldiers wanted to stand gaurd during a hurricane -thats just amazing.

Semper Fi
Do Or Die

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Guarded to honor great Americans that served this Nation. To all you stupid asses that gave some of these stupid answers.these Unknowns are honored because they died so you could get on Yahoo and have Freedom of Speech and give stupid answers that came out of your ***.

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Some people say they're patriotic, loving this country, but the second they are approached by a Marine recruiter, they yell, curse, hang up on, spit upon, ignore, or say "no thank you," and some even threaten this US Marine. To this, I salute and thank you very much for your support. Ooorah!

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The hurricane thing is not true...go to this link for many Q & A's on this topic.

http://www.grisak.com/Fun%20Stuff/Tomb%20of%20the%20Unknown%20Soldier/Tomb%20of%20the%20Unknown%20Soldier.htm

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There are soldiers from WW I/II, Korean, and Vietnam Wars. The Vietnam War Veteran was identified as Air Force 1st Lt. Michael J. Blassie in 1998. The original usage of the guard was to stop people from having picnic lunches at the memorial and to ensure it is not desecrated or disrespected.

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My dad took me to see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, it's was a very touching, powerful experience. It made a lasting impression on me & that was about 40 yrs ago. God Bless the soldiers that have served our Country, they fight and die everyday for US.

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tomb of the unknown soldier is not just one soldier. its for all the soldiers that had died and we could not identify. The MIAs KIAs.

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As per www.tombguard.org. “In1920's, people often came to cemetery for picnics during which time some would actually use the Tomb as a picnic area. In 1925, they posted a civilian guard; in 1926, a military guard was posted; and on July 1, 1937, this was expanded to the 24-hour watch.

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I am disappointed in the response given by Mr. Realworld. He must not have ever served in the armed forces. These brave men gave their lives. So for him to turn it into a " political" thing really gets me.I ask all Americans to reflect on where we would be if things had turned out different.

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I have a friend in the Marine Corps. and he is one of the guards of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers. He went through harsh background checks and he has to agree not to smoke or drink. Basically you have to be the model patriotic American.

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Seeing as how technology and science has advanced so much, they could find out the Unknown Soldier's identity so he'll no longer be unknown if they chose to.

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The unknown Soldier & others died so persons can have freedoms.I don't like people making jokes & disrespectful comments. These people have no self respect or esteem for themselves, no respect for others,duty or sacrifice. GOD Bless K.I.A.'s, M.I.A.'s and P.O.W.'s. God Bless those injured in duty.

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This is the land of the free BECAUSE of the brave. Let's not forget that.

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This is a high honor for men and woman of the millitary. I come from a millitary family. Its a shame that people have to make up stupid comments. Learn respect people!! .. they are over there dieing so we can have freedom ..

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If no one knows who the unknown soldier is, then how do we know that the person who is buried there is a soldier, or even one of our soldiers?

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i belive u wen u said they stood in the rain! once i went there it was 90 degres and they were still not stoopping and the changing of the gaurd to was excellent! u should se it some time!

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The Honor Guard at the Tomb was established March 25, 1926. One sentinel being posted at the tomb from morning until evening. On July 1, 1937, it became 24 hrs a day.

They were there to prevent any desecration or disrespect towards the tomb.

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unidentified remains of a soldier killed in action ceremonially entombed as the representative of all the war dead of his country and accorded national honors

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After World War I many nations the first was Great Britain selected an unknown soldier as a tribute to those who had made the supreme sacrifice In theU.S. the first American unknown soldier was interred in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va., on Nov. 11, 1921

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His tomb was dedicated Nov. 11, 1932 It is inscribed: “Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God.” On Memorial Day 1958 two more unknown soldiers one from

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World War II and one from the Korean War were buried at the head of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier now called the Tomb of the Unknowns Special ceremonies are held each November 11 on Armistice Day now known as Veterans Day in the U.S. to honor the unknown soldiers

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your all wrong... my regiment 3D US INF REGT. (The Old Guard)
is the home of the Tomb guards

heres the answers to any questions

we started guarding it because of theives
http://www.army.mil/OLDGUARD/SpecialtyPlatoons/TombFAQ.htm

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I was there one day around 1960 and witnessed something special. A heckler about 40 years old kept shouting stupid insults and a fully dressed SGM stepped up the viewing steps into the guys face and "you will not sound of like that again". The crowd just cheered. I will never forget that SGM.

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To us that have served this country I find some of the comments given here stupid. The military teaches you to respect your fellow soldier. It knocks the ********* out you and turns you into a man or woman-not children as some of these posts indicate. The Tomb is just showing that respect. Period.

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I would say that blondie IS the epitome of her name.

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Look how stupid you are people... Don't tell me after a century those soldiers who die in Iraq will bury in that Tomb? How many veterans buried in that Tomb? Nobody knows.

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So the reason why they keep guarding it is to keep away those selfish government to get some GOLD buried inside of that TOMB!

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A lot of inference coming from your mind people but until now you’re all blinds the reality. The reality that theirs a GOLD or could it be an Antique live BOMB! Shell inside of that tomb.

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I bet its jesus!

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The only honorable & decent thing to do to give to our fallen comrades the respect they deserve.
Truth,Duty,Valor
Bluehornet

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When I visited the Tomb, it was during an eighth grade class trip to D.C. and even though I was young, I could still feel that the Tomb was something truly special. Standing there in silence, history and abstract feelings like honor and respect seemed nearly tangible, all things like politics aside.

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From what I've recently learned the tomb is not "unknown". Believe it or not it is merely a publicity stunt pulled off by our government. Please visit this site http://www.buyers-brokerage.com/military.html

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Here's actually a better site to visit than the above one http://www.arlingtoncemetery.net/unk-vn50.htm

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The Tomb serves as a powerful reminder the high price of war. The guard is there to not only honour and protect that particular tomb, but to honour all those who have fallen and who will fall.

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Other Answers (9)

  • Oh No!!!!!!! by Oh No!!!!!!!
    Member since:
    September 06, 2006
    Total points:
    2,596 (Level 4)
    I didn't know that it had 24 hour guard, i think that is excellent.
    20% 1 Vote
    • 89 people rated this as good
  • Munya Says: DUH! by Munya Says: DUH!
    Member since:
    June 13, 2006
    Total points:
    35,828 (Level 7)
    It's a sign of respect.
    0% 0 Votes
    • 94 people rated this as good
  • flip103158 by flip1031...
    Member since:
    August 07, 2006
    Total points:
    4,119 (Level 4)
    Respect for the fallen heros.
    20% 1 Vote
    • 87 people rated this as good
  • wi_saint by wi_saint
    Member since:
    March 01, 2006
    Total points:
    16,441 (Level 6)
    The Sentinal is there to honor the deceased veteran(s) service to his country and to us all.
    The particular reason that you are asking about, is probably due to nationalistic pride at the time that the guard was instituted.

    Here is a beautiful page that will answer most of your questions.

    Source(s):

    0% 0 Votes
    • 91 people rated this as good
  • elmjunburke by elmjunbu...
    Member since:
    April 01, 2006
    Total points:
    57,480 (Level 7)
    It's military tradition. They're not actually guarding it as if someone might sneak in and run off with it. It's a show of respect for those who fought and died for our country.

    Source(s):

    an old soldier
    0% 0 Votes
    • 132 people rated this as good
  • MikeGolf by MikeGolf
    Member since:
    April 02, 2006
    Total points:
    235,858 (Level 7)
    It is a symbol of our respect and a promise that we will continue to protect what they died for.
    0% 0 Votes
    • 122 people rated this as good
  • yetti by yetti
    Member since:
    July 11, 2006
    Total points:
    7,344 (Level 5)
    Respect....a symbol of the love for our soldiers...both then and now, fallen or still fighting....and that we will still protect the things they died for....
    0% 0 Votes
    • 122 people rated this as good
  • sureshot649 by sureshot...
    Member since:
    September 09, 2006
    Total points:
    2,437 (Level 3)
    It's because the military takes care of it's own, even when we can't identify that soldier/Marine/sailor/airman, we're not going to leave them alone, nor forget them, ever.
    20% 1 Vote
    • 148 people rated this as good

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