Tag: Arlington National Cemetery

Member Post

 

Honoring the Fallen: USAF Colonel lays wreath at Australian War Memorial Every day as the sun sinks below the horizon, the Australian Defence Force honors one person who gave their life in service to the country as a member of the armed services. Col. Raymond Powell, the senior U.S. defense official in Australia, laid a […]

Join Ricochet!

This is a members-only post on Ricochet's Member Feed. Want to read it? Join Ricochet’s community of conservatives and be part of the conversation. Get your first month free.

Contributor Post Created with Sketch. Recommended by Ricochet Members Created with Sketch. Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

 

A breeze softly blows across the plaza, as if the souls of those who perished are passing by. The white marble sarcophagus displays the Greek figures representing Peace, Victory, and Valor, reminding us that warfare ultimately strives to achieve all of them.

Several years ago we had the opportunity to visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and saw the changing of the guard. The uniformed relief commander appeared and announced that those present remain silent and standing; in some ways, the stated request seemed redundant, as people seemed to be called to do both out of a solemn respect. When we were there, I was struck by the silence and stillness, as the sentinels slowly and gracefully moved through this timeless ritual. We seemed to walk with them, as their actions demonstrated their deep respect for the fallen and for their families.

I also realized today that there are those who might describe the ritual as robotic; however, that description couldn’t be further from the truth. I would call it a profound demonstration of a walking meditation, as each sentinel, impeccably dressed, proceeded through this ritual. Each second, each step, each movement resonated with the deep respect and honor these soldiers were demonstrating to those who were lost in battle. Although you may find the video moving, there is nothing like being in the presence of this sacred ritual.