Unknown Soldier: World War One Book Tasting

Prologue

The Andersons had always been deeply patriotic, with a profound respect for their country and those who had sacrificed their lives to protect it. Mrs. Anderson’s Grandfather, Papaw Tommy and Grandmother’s brother, James, even served in World War I together. So, when Mr. Anderson, a retired military veteran, suggested taking a family trip to Washington, D.C. to visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, everyone eagerly agreed.

The Andersons, consisting of Mr. and Mrs. Anderson and their two children, Emma and Jacob, embarked on their journey to the nation’s capital. Excitement filled the air as they packed their belongings, ready for the memorable adventure that lay ahead.

Their road trip was filled with laughter at Mr. Anderson’s corny dad jokes, games created from the minds of Emma and Jacob and interesting stories that may or may not have been true. Along the way, they marveled at the changing landscapes that started out with the flat gulf plains that turned into the rolling hills of the Appalachian and Smokey mountains and stopped at historical landmarks, immersing themselves in the rich tapestry of America’s history. The Andersons made it a point to appreciate every moment and soak in the natural beauty of the journey and the vivid memories being made in the minds of the children.

Finally, they arrived in Washington, D.C. The family settled into a cozy chain hotel in the Virginia suburb of Falls Church and woke up early the next morning, eager to begin their day at Arlington National Cemetery. As they stepped onto the hallowed grounds, a sense of hushed reverence enveloped them.

They followed the winding paths through the rolling rows of white gravestones, each representing a hero who had made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. The silence was broken only by the gentle rustling of the multi-colored autumn leaves and the distant sound of a bugle solemnly playing taps. It was a somber reminder of the price paid by others for their freedom.

At last, they reached the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Mr. Anderson, his military training instilling a deep respect, explained the significance of the tomb to his captivated children. They stood in awe as they witnessed the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a solemn display of honor and dedication.

The Andersons stood in respectful silence near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The air was heavy with respect, as they observed the ceremony, a ritual that honored the fallen heroes who lay beneath the hallowed ground. It was a moment of reverence and reflection.

As the ceremony progressed, the Andersons noticed a group of teenagers nearby who seemed oblivious to the solemnity of the occasion. They chatted loudly, laughed, and even took selfies, showing a lack of respect that deeply troubled them.

Just as the Andersons exchanged concerned glances, a Tomb Guard, resplendent in his crisp uniform, moved swiftly and silently towards the disruptive visitors. The atmosphere seemed to shift immediately, as if the weight of the moment had been recognized.

With calculated precision, the Tomb Guard approached the group, his eyes fixed on their startled faces. He paused for a moment, allowing the overwhelming weight of his presence to be felt. Then, in a firm but respectful voice, he addressed the disruptive visitors.

“Please maintain proper silence and respect within the premises of the tomb. This is a place of honor, where heroes rest. Let us all pay our respects with dignity,” the Tomb Guard spoke, his words echoing through the air.

The disruptive teenagers, taken aback by the sudden admonishment, fell silent in stunned shock. Some looked embarrassed, realizing the magnitude of their actions. The Andersons watched in awe as the Tomb Guard maintained his composure, his dedication to the sacred duty evident in every movement.

The group quickly adjusted their behavior, offering nods of acknowledgment and whispered apologies. They became mindful of the sanctity of the place, realizing the impact their actions had on others who had come to pay their respects.

Jacob gazed at the solemn gleamy white marble beauty of the Tomb, his young mind filled with curiosity and questions. He turned to his father who stood beside him, a look of pride filled with reverence etched on his face.

“Dad,” Jacob began, his voice filled with genuine curiosity, “who is buried here? Why is it called the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?”

Mr. Anderson, a proud military veteran, knelt down to Jacob’s eye level and placed a gentle hand on his son’s shoulder. He took a moment to gather his thoughts, wanting to explain this painfully significant piece of history in a way that Jacob would understand.

“Son,” he began, his voice soft and measured, “the Tomb of the Unknown is a place dedicated to soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country but whose identities remain unknown.”

Jacob’s eyes widened with a mix of awe and genuine confusion. “Unknown? How can they not know who they are?”

Mr. Anderson nodded, patiently empathizing with Jacob’s curiosity. “You see, son, during times of war, there are instances when soldiers give their lives on the battlefield, but their identities cannot be determined. Sometimes, it’s because they were badly injured or disfigured, and other times, their remains are simply not found.”

Jacob furrowed his young brow, trying to comprehend the magnitude of such a sacrifice. “So, they are buried here to honor their sacrifice?”

“Yes, exactly,” his father confirmed. “These soldiers represent all the brave men and women who fought for our country and made the ultimate sacrifice, even when their names are known only to God. They symbolize the valor, courage, and selflessness of all those who gave their lives to protect our freedom.”

Jacob’s inquisitive mind grappled with the weight of such sacrifice. He stood in silence for a moment, absorbing the significance of the Tomb.

His father continued, “It’s important to remember that each time we visit this place, we honor not only the unknown soldiers but also all those who have served and continue to serve our country. Their bravery and dedication should never be forgotten.”

Jacob nodded, a newfound appreciation for the significance of the tomb beginning to take hold. He understood that the tomb was a reminder of the countless sacrifices made by those who fought for their country, even when their names were lost in the annals of history, known only to God.

As they stood there together, the Andersons paid their solemn respects, their hearts filled with unending gratitude for the unknown soldiers and all the servicemen and women who had served their country with honor. Jacob felt a sense of pride and responsibility, knowing that he carried the legacy of their sacrifices within him.

Then Jacob asked a simple question to his father, “What were these men’s lives like?”