Local DAR Celebrate 100th Anniversary of Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Local DAR Celebrate 100th Anniversary of Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
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Point Vicente Chapter’s National Society Daughters of The American Revolution (NSDAR or DAR) along with the El Redondo Chapter gathered for a wreath-laying ceremony to commemorate the Centennial of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, veterans and all who have sacrificed for America’s freedom at Green Hills Memorial Cemetery in Rancho Palos Verdes this past Veteran’s Day.
“The DAR has partnered with the Society of the Honor Guard of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to observe the Centennial of the Tomb,” said Alta Graham, Regent of the Point Vicente Chapter NSDAR. “At 11 am on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, we jointed a National Salute and paused to pay tribute to all veterans.”
The events included a benediction followed by the Harbor Chapter Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) Color Guard dressed in revolutionary period uniforms to conduct a flag salute. A dedication ceremony recognized all patriots who served or are currently serving our country.
“The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington, VA was established in 1921 as a sacred memorial site and grave for Unknown soldiers from World War I,” said Jacquelyn Luca, Regent of the El Redondo Chapter NSDAR. “Commemorating the Tomb’s Centennial while recognizing the contributions of all veterans is not only patriotic, but also appropriate.”
Thirty five years later, President Dwight D. Eisenhower approved the inclusion of remains of soldiers from World War II and the Korean War. Remains of a Vietnam War Unknown were entombed for 14 years, but were disinterred in 1998 after DNA testing identified him as Air Force Lieutenant Michael Blassie. He was returned to his hometown of St. Louis, MO and was buried with military honors. No Unknown soldier has taken his place and due to DNA collection processes, there will never be an unidentified fallen soldier again.
“We invite everyone to visit tombguard.org to learn about planting a Never Forget Garden and to obtain a special garden Memorial Marker,” added Graham, “Planting a Never Forget Garden is a superb way to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.”
Events began promptly at 11am at Green Hills Memorial Park located at 27501 S. Western Ave. in Rancho Palos Verdes.
The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NDSDAR or DAR) is a women’s service organization founded in 1890 whose members can trace their lineage to an individual who contributed to securing American independence during the Revolutionary War. DAR chapters participate in projects to promote historic preservation, education and patriotism.
The Society of the Honor Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (SHGTUS) is comprised of an unbroken chain of Soldiers dating back to 1926. Handpicked and rigorously trained, they describe their service as a privilege and an honor. The SHGTUS is a 501c3 organization and does not receive institutional funding.
The National Society Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) is a non-profit, non-partisan congressionally chartered organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history and teaching American history to future generations.
Credit for images: Laura Mueller
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