Large monuments with family names and unique shapes catch my eye as we begin our walk along the quiet paths; but it is the row after row, column after column of the plain white markers that are the unforgettable image of this place.

Everything stands on ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown. The click of spit polished heels and the slap of hand on rifle are the only sounds that break the silence as we watch the precisely repeated pattern of the fresh faced, perfectly uniformed, soldier walking guard at the tomb. On the hour there is a perfectly choreographed exchange as another takes over the solemn task of honoring and protecting those whose identity is known only to God.
The wreath laying ceremony is carried out with equal precision. The clear tones of taps fill the air along with reverence and gratitude for the sacrifice these men made.

The Women In Military Service for America Memorial lies between the huge ornate entry gates in the space and incorporating the stonework that was originally designated as the ceremonial entrance to Arlington. The goal is to educate and inspire as well as celebrate past and present service; making it much more museum like than other memorials. It feels sort of odd to need to separately recognize the contributions and sacrifice of women. It makes it feel lessor somehow, like oh yeah, they have done stuff too. It is well done though and certainly educational. I wonder how women will be included in memorials going forward.