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Tomb of the Unknowns Traditional Cache

Hidden : 11/11/2011
Difficulty:
2 out of 5
Terrain:
2 out of 5

Size: Size:   small (small)

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Geocache Description:

A SOLDIER KNOWN BUT TO GOD

On November 11, 1921, an American soldier—his name “known but to God”—was buried on a Virginia hillside overlooking the Potomac River and the city of Washington, DC. The burial site of this unknown World War I soldier in Arlington National Cemetery symbolized dignity and reverence for America’s veterans. It was called the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. On May 30, 1958, the remains of soldiers from WWII and the Korean War were interred in the plaza. On May 28, 1984, the remains of a soldier from Vietnam were interred in the Plaza beside his comrades. It is now called the Tomb of the Unknowns. ____________________________________________________________________________________ Interesting facts about the TOMB: • The monument which rests on top of the Unknown grave is a sarcophagus that is simple but impressive in its dimensions. Its austere, flat-faced form is relieved at the corners and along the sides by neo-classic columns set unto the surface. • Sculpted into the east panel which faces Washington are the three figures of Valor, Victory, and Peace. • The north and south sides are divided into three panels, each adorned with an inverted wreath. • On the west panel facing the Amphitheater is inscribed: "HERE RESTS IN HONORED GLORY AN AMERICAN SOLDIER KNOWN BUT TO GOD" ____________________________________________________________________________________ Interesting facts about the SENTINELS: • Originally a civilian watchman was responsible for the security of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. In 1926, a military guard was established during daylight hours. In 1948, the 3d US Infantry “The Old Guard” assumed the post. Members of the 3d Infantry’s Honor Guard continue to serve this distinguished duty today. • A Soldier seeking the honor of serving as sentinel at the Tomb must possess exemplary qualities, to include American citizenship, a spotless record, and impeccable military bearing. They must be between 5' 11" and 6' 4" tall and have a 30” waist. There have been 3 female Sentinels. • While on duty, the sentinel crosses a 63-foot rubber surfaced walkway in exactly 21 steps. He then faces the Tomb for 21 seconds, turns again, pauses an additional 21 seconds before retracing his steps. The 21 is symbolic of the highest salute according to dignitaries in military and state ceremonies. • As a gesture against intrusion on their post, the sentinel always bears his weapon on the shoulder away from the Tomb. He will moisten his gloves to prevent losing his grip on the rifle. • The sentinels are changed every thirty minutes, twenty-four hours a day, and 365 days a year, regardless of weather conditions. • Every sentinel spends at least FIVE HOURS A DAY getting his uniform ready for guard duty. There are no wrinkles, folds or lint on the uniform as the Guards dress for duty in front of a full-length mirror. • The sentinels wear the Army Dress Blue Uniform with the Tomb Identification Badge on their right breast pocket. The design is the inverted open laurel wreath with the words “Honor Guard” engraved at the base. After at least nine months of service, the Soldier is entitled to wear the badge as a permanent part of their uniform. ____________________________________________________________________________________ The cache is a small camouflaged jar located along the Papio Trail.

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