Heraldry


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Arlington National Cemetery
Seal


Description
On a black disc, an American bald eagle with wings displayed vertically, grasping an olive branch in its dexter talons and a bundle of thirteen arrows in its sinister talons, and bearing a shield blazoned: Gules, behind a folded United States flag Proper,a wreath Or. Below the eagle is a gold scroll inscribed "OUR MOST SACRED SHRINE" in black letters. Beneath the scroll is the Cemetery's establishment year, 1864. All encircled by a black designation band edged gold and inscribed "ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY" in gold letters.

Symbolism
Black and gold are the colors observed throughout Arlington National Cemetery. Black signifies mourning, and gold is emblematic of honor. The American bald eagle is a symbol of the United States of America and has long been associated with the national military establishment. The arrows stand for honors received in combat defending the peace, which is represented by the olive branch. The folded flag is a living symbol of service to one's country. The wreath and shield are styled after ornaments on the Cemetery's Schley and Roosevelt ceremonial gates, which bear the seals of the armed forces.





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