Letter to the Editor:

Upon my visit to Washington DC., I thought nothing could be more memorable than a visit to the White House, I quickly discovered the most memorable thing I would do was visit the Arlington National Cemetery. What an honor and privilege to look across the vast acres to see the thousands of headstones that represents the men and women who fought and died for our freedom. The changing of the guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers was such a heart wrenching sight and experience. The tomb honors military personnel who have died in battle whose identity is not known. In scripted on the tomb is “Here Rest in Honored Glory an American Soldier Known But to God”. A military guard or sentinel stands watch over the tomb 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, no matter the weather conditions. The changing of the guard is every hour or half hour depending on the time of year. The honor and respect at this sight is a true to tribute to all who have served and died for our country. As I stood there I thought of the mothers who have lost their child(ren) to the service of our country and the scars that have been left on the minds of those who have served. My dad was a veteran, but seldom spoke of his experience, and spoke with a sad heart and would say I don’t want to remember the war. I want to thank all Veterans who have died for our country and for those who have fought for our county. If you ever have the opportunity to visit our nation’s capitol, visit the Arlington National Cemetery to feel and see the reverence that should be given to all Veterans.

Pam Riley

Bidwell