Topic > Arlington National Cemetery - 924

One of the holiest places in America is Arlington National Cemetery. Every year the heroes rest here. Families from across the nation visit Arlington throughout the year to pay respects to their loved ones. Many families of American heroes who visit Arlington Cemetery may have cried at the wrong grave. Arlington was once the home of George Washington's adopted nephew, George Washington Parke Custis (“Arlington” 4). Custis loved Washington so much that he wanted to make the house a memorial to him. Upon Custis' death, Arlington was left to his daughter, Mary Ann Custis. Mary Ann was married to Robert E. Lee. They lived in the house until the outbreak of the Civil War. During the war, the house was used as a camp for the Union army (Stein 7-10). The Union government declared Arlington a national cemetery on June 15, 1864 (Reef 27). To be buried in Arlington, a person must meet the burial requirements. Those who died on active duty and those who served for twenty or more years may be buried at Arlington. Others who qualify for burial at Arlington are veterans who suffered a disability of 30 percent or more and were honorably discharged from the Army before October 1, 1949. Recipients of decorations such as the Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service, Silver Star or Purple Heart also qualifies for burial in Arlington. Burial of members of the president's cabinet, other nationally elected officials, and Supreme Court justices who served honorably in the military are also permitted. Burial is permitted for presidents of the United States, who are also referred to as commander and chief of the army (Reef 64). Not only are military heroes buried in Arlington, but memorials have also been built to honor others who made their contributions. lives for America. Memorials found throughout Arlington tell the story of people throughout American history (Reef 43). Every year families walk the endless rows of white stones in Arlington to pay homage to those who gave their lives for America. One of the most visited graves in Arlington is that of President John F. Kennedy. President Kennedy traveled the world to promote friendship between the United States and other nations. Americans were shocked when he was shot and killed in Dallas, Texas in 1963. His grave is marked with an eternal flame that will burn forever, reminding people of his accomplishments (Reef 44-46).