Each Memorial Day we remember loved ones, but these ladies recognize our fallen soldiers every day of the year. Meet the Arlington Ladies.
In 1948, this group of volunteers was formed to play a unique and important role at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C.
Learn about the Arlington Ladies on this episode of American Countryside with Andrew McCrea:
“We represent the Army chief of staff at the military services,” says Army Arlington Lady Margaret Mensch. “That’s really our most important job is that we are there when there is nobody, and we do a lot of services where there’s just me, an escort, a rep from the cemetery and the chaplain.”
The Arlington Ladies stand with a military escort and, at the appropriate time, step forward to say a few words to the grieving family.
“We present the card from the chief of staff,” Mensch says. “It’s all in one envelope, and then there’s a fold-over card from the Arlington Ladies, and on half of that the ladies can express their own sentiments.”
Sometimes the Arlington Ladies receive the American flag, which is then sent to the family.
“You come away with tears, there’s no doubt about that,” Mensch says. “It’s always difficult when little are children involved.”
The army has about 50 ladies who are full-time volunteers. Two are on duty each day for sometimes 10 or more funerals in a day.
“We’re making sure that none of our soldiers ever go to the last retreat alone,” Mensch says. “We feel very honored to be able to do this.”
The Arlington Ladies are usually past military members or spouses. Today, the Air Force, Army, Navy and Coast Guard all have Arlington Ladies who perform similar volunteer duties, attending funeral services for active-duty service members and veterans. The group ensures families receive condolences and every soldier is recognized for their service.
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