As Memorial Day tributes and emotions continue dear, and closely held, we salute the year-round remembrance efforts of an extremely dedicated, but little known group of women called, with deep respect, the "Arlington Ladies." These devoted women, all military spouses and/or former military members themselves, representing the combat branches, attend every burial service at Arlington, whether in the summer heat or winter's cold, rain or shine, no matter what, one Arlington Lady is always there.
The group, now numbering about 65 members, was formally-established by Julia Abrams, wife of then-Army Chief of Staff, General Creighton Abrams, Jr., whose son, Major-General Robert Abrams, now commands the Third ID at Stewart-Hunter. The group evolved after military leaders witnessed so many funerals for the fallen at Arlington, at which no family members were able to be present. Thus began the tradition of having a group-volunteer at every funeral there, a total that can reach twenty or more per day, divided among the two women assigned there each day. Now formally recognized, the Arlington Ladies assigned, are escorted to each burial site by a member of Arlington's Third Infantry, "The Old Guard," and, if family members are there, following presentation of the folded American flag, she then gives to them a letter of tribute and remembrance from the branch chief of staff.
The Arlington Ladies are ever-there at grave-side, family or not, to insure that no veteran, young or old, is ever buried there alone. The deeply-caring and dedicated volunteer service, over the decades, from these very special women, is worthy of your knowledge, and the heartfelt thanks of us all.
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