This year, the nation honors the Tomb with a historic Centennial event. Each year, at 11:00am on the 11 th day of November, a wreath-laying ceremony has taken place for more than 50 years. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier has long been associated with Veterans Day. On this annual holiday, a Centennial ceremony will be held at Arlington National Cemetery to celebrate and honor the memorial that symbolizes those of America who gave their lives in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War in defense of our nation’s integrity, honor, and tranquility. This year, the number 21 takes on even more significance, as 2021 marks the Tomb’s 100 th anniversary. He is guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and his movements reflect the traditional 21-gun salute-the highest honor rendered in the armed forces. He turns 180 degrees, shifts his rifle to the opposite shoulder, then makes the same journey to the other end of the mat. When he reaches the end, he pauses for exactly 21 seconds. In Arlington National Cemetery, a soldier takes 21 steps along a rubber mat.
