100 Veterans, 100 Years: Honoring the Unknown

100 Veterans, 100 Years: Honoring the Unknown
A wreath lies on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on Nov. 11, 1922, one year after he was laid to rest (Universal History Archive/UIG/Getty Images)

By Col. William D. Bushnell, USMC (Ret)

America's Unknown Soldier was laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery Nov. 11, 1921. World War I veteran Army Sgt. Edward F. Younger chose the casket that would be designated the Unknown Soldier. “It seemed as if God raised my hand and guided me as I placed the roses on that casket,” Younger said.

Eight body bearers were chosen by Gen. John J. Pershing personally, all enlisted men with distinguished combat records: Navy Chief Gunner's Mate James Delaney, a former POW; Army Color Sgt. James W. Dell; Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Ernest A. Janson, a Medal of Honor recipient; Navy Chief Water Tender Charles Leo O'Conner, USN;  Army 1st Sgt. Louis Razga, Army Cpl. Thomas D. Saunders; Army 1st Sgt. Harry Taylor; and Army Sgt. Samuel Woodfill, a Medal of Honor recipient.

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