Arlington National Cemetery Tour (Self Guided), Washington D.C.

"The legacy of heroes is the memory of a great name and the inheritance of a great example," a distinguished politician of the 19th century said once.

The historic military necropolis – the Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia – is the final resting place for many of America's heroes, whose willingness to sacrifice for their country has earned them the nation's lasting gratitude. The cemetery was established during the American Civil War, in 1864, and has since become a revered national shrine and an important symbol of honor, sacrifice, and remembrance. Situated just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., it spans some 624 acres of rolling hills, tree-lined avenues, and well-manicured lawns.

One of Arlington's most iconic features is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, honoring the unidentified servicemen fallen during World War I, World War II, and the Korean and Vietnam wars. "Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God," says the inscription.

The Arlington cemetery is also the burial site for many notable individuals, such as President John F. Kennedy, as well as groups such as the crews of the Space Shuttles Challenger and Columbia, and the 9/11 Pentagon attack victims.

"The brave die never, though they sleep in dust: their courage nerves a thousand living men." If you wish to pay a solemn tribute to the men and women who served and died for America, take this self-guided walk.