The U.S. Navy Band performs “America the Beautiful” at the 146th Memorial Day observance at Arlington National Cemetery. Kara Coleman
Arlington — Hundreds of people poured onto the grounds of Arlington National Cemetery Monday for the 146th annual Memorial Day observance.
Everyone who entered the cemetery was given a rose to place on the grave of a loved one by a Girl Scout or Boy Scout who greeted them at the visitor’s center.
After placing the traditional wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, President Barack Obama addressed the crowd that had gathered in the sweltering heat. “Everything that we hold precious in this country was made possible by Americans who gave their all,” Obama said. “And because of them, our nation is stronger, safer, and will always remain a shining beacon of freedom for the rest of the world.”
Present in the audience was Clara Gantt, a 96-year-old widow of a soldier who served in the Korean War; she had welcomed home her husband’s body just this past December. Gantt stood and waved to the crowd at the amphitheater, who cheered and gave her a standing ovation.
The official program was followed by a mass wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Elsewhere in Arlington, some of the county’s residents were recognizing Memorial Day, while others admitted that they hadn’t given it much thought.
“Being that I never lost a family member in any wars, I don’t have an emotional connection to this day,” said Arlington resident Sara Vandepeute, who served in the Peace Corps. “But I think it’s rightfully celebrated. Being in the military is not an easy job choice, and we have to respect that.”
Retired Army Colonel Gary Carlberg was watching his grandchildren play in the fountain at Pentagon Row on Monday afternoon. “My grandfather fought in the Civil War in the Battle of Gettysburg, so we have a family history in the military,” Carlberg said. “We usually watch a parade, then spend the rest of the day having quality family time.”
Also spending time on Pentagon Row was Arlington resident Paul Bassett, who was playing in the grass with his toddler. “My wife is retired from the Air Force, so we care greatly about those who serve,” he said. “And we try to teach our children how important it is to remember those who sacrificed.”