While attending the National Association of Counties (NACo) Legislative Conference in Washington, DC, Alexander County Commissioners Josh Lail and Marty Pennell participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. The Commissioners and their wives, Mollie and Jennifer, were honored to lay a wreath at this powerful symbol of service and sacrifice on behalf of the citizens of Alexander County.
Laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier has long been a way for individuals and organizations to honor the sacrifices of American service members. Presidents, politicians, public figures, and foreign dignitaries have all paid their respects in this way. In addition, millions of people from around the world visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier each year.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is Arlington National Cemetery’s most iconic memorial and bears these words: “Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God.” The neoclassical, white marble sarcophagus stands atop a hill overlooking Washington, DC. Since 1921, it has provided a final resting place for one of America’s unidentified World War I service members, and unknown soldiers from later wars were added in 1958 and 1984. The tomb has also served as a place of mourning and a site for reflection on military service.