National Geographic: Arlington - Field of Honor

I recommend this video to any one planning a visit to the Washington, D.C. area, and particularly to persuade those visitors to cross the Potomac and visit Arlington National Cemetery, too. The video is also an excellent reference and pre-view for schools that take trips to D.C. and Arlington, so the students can be prepared for what they will see, and most importantly, what the cemetery represents. The professional lives of Tomb of the Unknown Sentinels woven throughout the history presented in the video is a good representation of reality for these members of the Old Guard, the Third Infantry Regiment. My wife and I know, our son was once a Tomb Guard. The video is emotional to the viewer as it captures the true meaning of dedication and service that our women and men in uniform have given to our country not only since the time of the Civil War, but the formation of our country. For those who view this video and visit Arlington, we are reminded that the Unknowns not only made the ultimate sacrifice of service, but even more so that they also gave their up their identifies. Regardless of the changes in weather, or politics, the Tomb Guards are there for them. This video reminds us that we should be there, too.JJS, Annapolis, MD

Before I wrote this review, I wanted to see what the other six reviews had to say. I can see why one was not satisfied by the presentation, but I was as was the other five.As a member of the Honor Guard in the Pacific, not as strict as the Old Guard in Washington, D.C., it brought back memories and I feel that others that were not as fortunate to be a part of such a unit should be given an "insider's view."As a veteran of ten years in the army, I also have embedded in me an inherent "attention to details" and enjoyed the interviews with cemetary staff.This Memorial Day, I ordered several books on Arlington as well as this DVD and one from 45 North Productions, "Arlington: In Eternal Vigil," and prefer the National Geographic work moreand as for content, far superior. That is not to say I do not want to own both.Frank Picchione, US Army 16 Nov 66 - 17 Apr 77Vietnam War Veteran, Disabled Las Vegas, NevadaS.E.A. Tet'68 17 Jan 68 - 10 Jan 70

I loved this movie because it discusses the history behind Arlington National Cemetery and the events that take place at Arlington. For example it goes into detail about the guards of the tomb of the unknown soldier(s). Great movie I would highly recommend it.

2 years ago my mother and I flew to Virginia for a dinner and then stayed near Washington, DC to do some sight-seeing. The first day of our sight-seeing took us to Mt. Vernon and Arlington National Cemetery. We took the tour of the cemetery and arrived at the Tomb of the Unknowns just as the Changing of the Guard was taking place. It is a very moving experience and something that every one should see. To the person who wondered why the guards take 21 steps when they walk past the tomb and stop for 21 seconds, it represents the 21 gun salute, which is the highest honor bestowed on a person. A 21 gun salute is sounded at the birth of someone prominent in the world like a world leader, or the death of someone like a president or a soldier. The DVD does explain the significance of the 21 steps if you look and listen for it. I highly recommend this DVD.

I have only one thing to say in regards to this video. This should be mandatory watching for every American, especially all kids in high school. Everyone needs to see how much our freedom really costs because it is not free and when you find out how many graves are really here it makes you want to shake your head and realize how lucky this nation really is to have so many that are willing to give their lives for us. This film takes us through every step, the compassion of the staff is overwhelming, what it takes to be a member of the honor guard, and how many notables are buried there along with the first blacks that are buried there that were fighting literally for their freedom from slavery. If you don't come away from this film teary eyed with patriotism then there is something wrong with you.

Following my visit to Arlington, I purchased this DVD to show in my 5th grade History classes. We had just studied the Civil War so this was a nice transition to end of year activities. Of the 90 kiddos who watched, all but a hand full were impressed, inspired, and blown away by the level of detail that goes into preparing the grounds, a funeral, and the guards at Arlington.This video is very well done, showing the rich history of the land that was turned into the cemetery, the training to become a Tomb Guard, and the intricate planning of a military funeral.

I loaned my copy of this documentary to a fellow teacher to show on Veterans' Day. She told me her 8th graders were glued to the screen the whole period, every period she showed it. There wasn't enough time to show the whole thing in one class period, and her kids have been asking when they'll get to finish it.The DVD shows the training soldiers undergo to qualify for the honor of guarding the Tomb of the Unknowns. Cemetery staff is interviewed, and parts of several military funerals are shown. The history of the cemetery is presented in an interesting and informative way.I would highly recommend this DVD to any history or civics teacher who needs something to show his or her students the way this nation honors in death those who have defended it.

Telling the story of Arlington National Cemetery and many of the traditions there. A great video to watch around Memorial Day