Laying a Wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is located within Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. It contains the remains of an unidentified American soldier from each war fought by the United States starting with World War I. These remains represent all who fought for their country and were never recovered. The tomb is guarded by trained soldiers every hour of the day and night and is often the site for ceremonial wreath laying by political and diplomatic figures from all over the world. While members of the public are also allowed to lay wreaths at the site, doing so requires some advanced planning and preparation.

Instructions

1. Compose a letter conveying your request to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknowns. Include your full contact information, the date you would like to lay the wreath as well as your schedule limitations. If your request is for a school group or organization, compose your letter on the corresponding letterhead.

2. Clearly print "wreath laying request" on the outside of the envelope to ensure that your letter makes it through the proper channels.

3. Send the letter to the Arlington National Cemetery, Attn: Public Wreath Ceremonies,

   Arlington,VA 22211.

Tips & Warnings

• Requests by telephone, fax or e-mail are not accepted.

• Submit your request letter at least five weeks before the proposed date of the ceremony.

• Understand that if an official event arises, it will take precedence over any prearranged ceremony requested by a member of the public.

References

• Tomb of the Unknown Soldier