As an AI language model, I don’t have personal experiences or emotions, but I can provide you with a detailed answer to your question.
Arlington National Cemetery, located in Arlington, Virginia, is a place of honor and remembrance for the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. It spans approximately 639 acres (259 hectares) and is the final resting place for many veterans, including those who served in every conflict in U.S. history.
It is difficult to provide an exact number of graves that are currently at Arlington National Cemetery, as the number fluctuates over time. However, as of my knowledge up to September 2021, there are approximately 400,000 graves at the cemetery. This number includes both marked and unmarked graves.
The cemetery continues to be an active burial site, with an average of around 7,000 to 8,000 burials taking place each year. These burials include veterans, active duty service members, and their eligible family members. As space is limited, the cemetery has implemented strict eligibility criteria for interment, ensuring that those laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery have made significant contributions to the nation’s defense.
To be eligible for burial at Arlington, individuals generally must have served in the military and received an honorable discharge. There are exceptions and specific criteria for different categories of individuals, such as Medal of Honor recipients, prisoners of war, and certain government officials.
In recent years, there has been discussion surrounding the available space at Arlington National Cemetery. The cemetery is expected to reach its capacity within the next few decades, prompting the need for careful planning and potential changes to eligibility requirements. Efforts are underway to find solutions, including the consideration of alternative burial options for future veterans.
It is worth noting that while the number of graves at Arlington National Cemetery is finite, the significance and solemnity of the site will endure as a symbol of honor and gratitude for the sacrifices of those who served their country.