AMERICA'S UNKNOWN SOLDIER LAID TO REST AT ARLINGTON
Washington, D.C. (JFK+50) On Armistice Day, November 11, 1921, "under the somber skies of featherlike clouds" the remains of America's Unknown Soldier were "escorted (from the Capitol down Pennsylvania Avenue to Arlington) by the Chief Executive of the nation, the only two living former Presidents (William Howard Taft & Woodrow Wilson) and the leaders of the country."*
The caisson bearing the casket was pulled by six jet black horses flanked by an honor guard.
The Unknown Soldier, representing all Americans who gave their lives in the world war, was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery where President Warren G. Harding said...
"This Armistice Day shall mark the beginning of a new, lasting peace."
*At the Capitol, several dignitaries were honored including Representative B. Carroll Reece** of Tennessee who 'wore the distinguished service cross, distinguished service medal & Croix de Guerre.'
**Brazilla Carroll Reece (1889-1961) was born in Butler, TN & educated at Carson-Newman & New York University. BCR was a lawyer, banker & publisher headquartered in Johnson City, TN. He served as East Tennessee's 1st District representative in the U.S. House of Representatives all but 6 years between 1921 & 1961.
SOURCE
"Peace, President Harding's Pledge To World Over Grave of War Hero Burial As U.S. Mourns," The Evening Star, Washington, D.C., November 11, 1921, Chronicling America, Library of Congress, www.loc.gov/
