[Daffynition]

If you have kids .... my secret tip is to do the Caisson Unit in Fort Meyer. These are the horses that are used for burials. You used to be able to drive right in to Meyer; but they have tightened up things at the gates. I'm sure you could ask how to get access. Kids will love the horses; the men & women who take care of them are so wonderful; they love to share their stories. To us, it's a special part of the Arlington experience.

A burial is so impressive.

When I go, I go with my cousin, who has a special pass and can drive right in, and up to the graves. Saves a lot of hiking. ;)

And of course, The Tomb of the Unknowns. Below the amphitheater are rest rooms, and where the Guard soldiers get dressed for their duty. Once we got in to the prep room, one of the sentinels soldiers invited my boys in and we saw how they get dressed. We were gobsmacked. They are constantly studying info about the cemetery. They don't let up for a second. Precious men.

Hope this gives you a taste for one of the best venues in DC. Don't be surprised if they ask for pic ID.

[poconopundit]

Thank you, Daffynition. You’ve excited me to visit. So glad to hear about the fine dignity of people and horses who keep the memory of our fallen heroes alive.

[poconopundit]

Daddynition, something I posted last December seems to fit the moment:

	By the rude bridge that arched the flood, Their flag to April’s breeze unfurled, Here once the embattled farmers stood, And fired the shot heard round the world. The foe long since in silence slept; Alike the conqueror silent sleeps; And Time the ruined bridge has swept Down the dark stream which seaward creeps.	On this green bank, by this soft stream, We set to-day a votive stone; That memory may their deed redeem, When, like our sires, our sons are gone. Spirit, that made those heroes dare, To die, and leave their children free, Bid Time and Nature gently spare The shaft we raise to them and thee.

Ralph Waldo Emerson’s "Concord Hymn" was written at the request of the Battle Monument Committee.  At Concord’s Independence Day celebration on July 4, 1837 it was first read, then sung as a hymn by a local choir.

I have studied Emerson’s works and believe the Concord Hymn is his finest poem.  The poem exalts the patriots who fought for our freedom.  Yet it also respects the English "foe" who also deserve our salute as brave warriors.

Emerson's use of the word "shaft" is very artful.   It describes the monument being raised to the heavens in tribute, and yet it also suggests the shaft in the ground where the heroes are laid to rest.

If you have not yet visited this site in Concord, Massachusetts, you owe to yourself to do so.  It will surely stir the heart of any FReeper.