Arlington National Cemetery: My humbling trip to DC

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Hello DPS family. I've been away from the boards for a few days. Just got back from a trip to Arlington National Cemetery that has really given me a new appreciation for the freedoms we have, and that we take for granted. It was a very sobering experience, and I have plans on going back with my kids in the very near future.

I apologize for the lack of quality in these pics...it was overcast and not a good day for shooting. I had planned on being out there at sunrise, but they didn't open til 8 am, and I couldn't stay for sunset as I had to catch a plane. Opportunity missed, but this is more of a story of humanity versus my artistic ability.

Here's a picture of one of the sentries standing guard over the tomb of the unknown soldier. Their regimen is unbelievable. Only the best of the best get chosen for the honor of guarding the tomb of the unknown soldier. It's a one-year tour of duty, with one-hour shifts, with the rest of the day in preparation for the next one-hour shift. During this one-year tour, they're in complete isolation from the rest of the world.

There are more pics later in the thread, too.





John F. Kennedy and his eternal flame...


They left with a name...they came back as a number....



I'm really not happy with the pics I came back with, but I can say that I'm eternally thankful to to the thousands of unknown soldiers in Arlington National Cemetery that I have the freedom to be a bad photographer if I want to be! God Bless Your Souls...

[Alaskan Kilted Guy]

Wonderful. Thanks for sharing.

[CobraNutt]

Arlington....One of the most awe inspiring places that I have ever been. My first time there was when I was 10 years old (1975). I remember it like it was yesterday. Thanks for capturing some great frames and sharing them with us. Very nice shots. I especially like the color isolation of #2. Well done.

[Craig R]

Thank you for your post. I believe that this spot should be on everyone's "bucket list" of places to visit. /Craig

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Here's another picture:

Standing guard....21 steps....face the tomb, pause for 21 seconds...21 steps to the other side...face the tomb...pause for 21 seconds...repeat. You can clearly see the path that's been worn into the carpeting.

[jakethepig]

Aww JIm These captures touched my heart. Just amazing. The second one for so many reasons is outstanding. Thank you for posting these pictures. I love them.

Dave.

[cathyg62]

Your pictures are awesome. I saw the changing of the guard several years ago and until you see it in person you cannot appreciate the reverence of the ceremony. Thanks for sharing - they bring back great memories...

[skyline photo]

the quality looks good. but sometimes subject matter out weighs the quality. in this case especialy. very well done sir. thank you.

[leonaashlee]

Your post gave me chills as in this family we have paid the ultimate price for freedom with the loss of our son in Iraq. It's always good when others realize the price that was paid for their freedoms. Thank you so much.

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Originally Posted by leonaashlee

Your post gave me chills as in this family we have paid the ultimate price for freedom with the loss of our son in Iraq. It's always good when others realize the price that was paid for their freedoms. Thank you so much.

Oh my god....I'm so, so sorry! I'm sorry if I struck a nerve. I had no idea. I'm terribly sorry for your loss, Leona. As a vet of Desert Storm, my heart goes out to you and your family...