ARLINGTON, Va. – Arlington National Cemetery will host a series of special events from May through June 2014 designed to honor the traditions, remember the sacrifice and explore the history of the cemetery as it commemorates its 150th anniversary.
The commemoration period begins with a wreath laying ceremony on May 13 at the gravesite of Army Pvt. William Christman, who was the first military burial at Arlington, and concludes with a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on June 15, the day Arlington officially became a national cemetery. The cemetery will also host informative lectures and tours that highlight the history of the United States through the eyes of its heroes buried at Arlington and the military conflicts that shaped the cemetery and the nation.
The highlight of the commemoration will be an observance program on the evening of June 13 that will feature historical vignettes and musical performances. The event is free and open to the public.
“Arlington National Cemetery is America’s premier military cemetery and a sacred treasure in our nation’s history. We are pleased to host a series of events to mark this special occasion,” said Patrick K. Hallinan, executive director of Army National Military Cemeteries.
Click here for a detailed listing of events.
Arlington National Cemetery is committed to honoring the legacy of our fallen heroes, veterans and their families through dignified military interment services. The work that Arlington is undertaking today will further enable the cemetery to be a place for people to Honor, Remember and Explore this nation’s rich history well into the future.