ANC Traffic Impacts: April 9-15

From April 9 through April 15, 2026, drivers entering Arlington National Cemetery via Memorial Avenue will experience delays due to a National Park Service pavement resurfacing project. 

Published on: Thursday, April 9, 2026 read more ...

Flags In: Thursday, May 21, 2026

The United States flag is one of the most significant symbols of Memorial Day, representing freedom, sacrifice and remembrance. Just before Memorial Day weekend, the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (also known as The Old Guard) honors America's fallen heroes by placing American flags at gravesites for service members buried at Arlington National Cemetery and the U.S. Soldiers' and Airmen's Home National Cemetery.

This tradition, known as "Flags In," has taken place annually since the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment was designated as the Army's official ceremonial unit in 1948. Every available soldier in the Old Guard participates. They place small American flags at approximately 260,000 headstones and 7,000 niche rows within the columbarium. Each flag is inserted into the ground, exactly one boot length from the headstone's base. It takes nearly 1,500 soldiers, including approximately 100 joint service members, four hours to complete Flags In.

At the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Sentinels (who are members of the Old Guard) place flags to honor the Unknowns. 

It is an honor and a privilege for The Old Guard to conduct this mission, as not every honor guard member conducts memorial affairs at Arlington National Cemetery. Flags In offers a special opportunity for them to show respect and honor to every service member who has served our country—including, in many cases, friends and family members. 

All flags are removed after Memorial Day, before the cemetery opens to the public.