John Basilone Gravesite — Attraction in Arlington

Visiting Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone’s gravesite at Arlington was deeply humbling. To most people, he’s just a popular name in the history books or a main character in a tv series but to a select group of people, he significantly more than that, he’s a hero whose courage and sacrifice embody the very spirit of the Corps. Standing at his headstone, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride and respect, knowing I was paying my respects to a Marine who set the standard for bravery and devotion to his brothers. Arlington is sacred ground, and Basilone’s presence here reminds us of the cost of freedom and the weight of our duty. To myself, and many Marines, he represents the highest example of what it means to wear the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor.

Semper...

Real hero. Many heros there. His grave is simple, unlike the officer ranks who seem to want to out complete each other in a way that would make an Irish gipsy proud.

No crowds, in fact I was only one there. Worth saying hi...

Sergeant "Manila John" Basilone, the only enlisted Marine in World War II (WWII) to be awarded both the Medal of Honor and Navy Cross.

A...