Hello valued travelers and patriots,
Our "Explore America Army 250" campaign, a heartfelt tribute to the US Army's monumental 250th anniversary on June 14, 2025, brings us to a place of unparalleled solemnity and profound respect: Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. This isn't just a destination; it's a pilgrimage, a sacred landscape where the very heartbeat of American sacrifice resonates with every step.
Arlington stands as a powerful, tangible testament to the generations of brave men and women who have worn the uniform of the US Army and other branches of service, offering their lives in defense of freedom.
Where Valor Rests: The Story of Arlington
The story of Arlington National Cemetery begins in the crucible of the Civil War. Established in 1864, it was originally a burial ground for Union soldiers, located on the confiscated estate of Confederate General Robert E. Lee's wife, Mary Custis Lee. What began as a wartime necessity rapidly evolved into a hallowed national shrine.
Today, Arlington is the final resting place for over 400,000 active duty service members, veterans, and their eligible family members. The white marble headstones stretch across rolling hills, a stark and moving visual representation of the immense human cost of securing and defending American liberties. From Revolutionary War veterans (re-interred here) to heroes of every conflict up to the present day, Arlington embodies the enduring legacy of the US Army's commitment to "Duty, Honor, Country."
"Arlington National Cemetery is more than a burial ground; it is the physical embodiment of the sacrifices made to build and protect our nation," says Bruce Chew, owner at Come Monday Travel. "As we mark 250 years of the US Army, a visit here is a powerful and necessary experience, allowing us to deeply connect with the profound cost of freedom and honor those who paid the ultimate price."
Why a Visit to Arlington Will Forever Change You
A journey to Arlington is an experience of profound reflection and national pride:
- The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier: This is the heart of Arlington. Witness the solemn and precise Changing of the Guard ceremony, performed 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, by the elite 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard). It is a mesmerizing tribute to unknown service members who gave their lives for the country.
- Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial: Explore the historic home that pre-dates the cemetery, offering a glimpse into the lives of the Lee family and the pre-Civil War era.
- Graves of Prominent Figures: Pay respects at the gravesites of John F. Kennedy, his wife Jacqueline, and his brothers Robert and Ted Kennedy. Visit the final resting places of Supreme Court justices, astronauts, and countless military heroes like General John J. Pershing, Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, and pioneering aviator General Henry "Hap" Arnold.
- Women in Military Service for America Memorial: Located at the ceremonial entrance to Arlington, this unique memorial honors all women who have served in the US armed forces.
- Explore at Your Own Pace or Take a Tour: The cemetery is vast, but you can explore on foot or take the interpretive tram tour, which provides historical context and stops at key locations.
- A Sea of White Headstones: The sheer scale of the cemetery, with its endless rows of uniform white headstones, is a powerful visual reminder of the multitude of lives dedicated to national service.
Beyond the Hallowed Grounds: Exploring Washington D.C. & Northern Virginia
Arlington's proximity to the nation's capital makes it an ideal central point for a history-rich itinerary:
- Pentagon, Public Tours: The Pentagon, one of the world's largest office buildings, is the headquarters of the Department of Defense. Located in the Washington, D.C., area, the five-sided building has three times the floor space of the Empire State Building. Each year, about 100,000 visitors explore displays and memorials in the Pentagon's halls with the help of tour guides, all of whom are active U.S. military service members.
- The National Mall & Monuments (Washington D.C.): Just across the Potomac River, explore the iconic Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, National World War II Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and Korean War Veterans Memorial.
- Smithsonian Museums (Washington D.C.): Dive deeper into American history and culture at the National Museum of American History, National Air and Space Museum, and many others, all offering free admission.
- National Museum of the US Army (Fort Belvoir, VA, approx. 45 mins south): This state-of-the-art museum offers an incredible deep dive into 250 years of Army history, a perfect complement to your Arlington visit.
- Old Town Alexandria, VA: A charming historic seaport town with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, unique shops, and delicious dining, just a short drive from Arlington.
- Mount Vernon (approx. 45 mins south): Explore the beautiful estate of George Washington, offering insights into his life as a farmer, military leader, and president.
A visit to Arlington National Cemetery is an emotional journey that will leave an indelible mark on your heart. It’s a powerful way to conclude our "Explore America Army 250" series, reminding us of the enduring legacy and profound sacrifice of the US Army over its 250 years.
Ready to pay your respects and witness this sacred tribute to American heroes? Come Monday Travel is your dedicated logistical support team, ready to make your journey to Arlington National Cemetery seamless and deeply meaningful.
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