Friday, November 10, 2006

Military Monks.

Well its just about Veteran's day and an email I got from a friend set me to reading about the Tomb of the Unknowns. Its a monument in Arlington National Cemetery you may have heard of. Most notably its the grave of three nameless US servicemen that stands under constant guard. The lifestyle described for these sentries seems pretty monastic when you think about it. Sacrifice, training, study, regiment.

Its a pretty hearty investment and a symbolic gesture that extends past the usual commitment of an occupation; a lifelong commitment that shapes their lives.

Its also interesting to note that there pretty much won't be any new unknown soldiers. DNA testing and logistical management have ruled out most of the uncertainty. In fact the 'unknown' from Vietnam was identified and removed from this monument in 1998.

Go ahead and read a bit about it, so you're not just sitting around playing Mario 3 all day.

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