In October 1921, it was America’s turn to honor its ‘Unknown Soldier’ from the Great War, a symbol for thousands of unidentified fallen. The sacred task of selection fell to Army Sgt. Edward Younger. Four unidentified bodies were exhumed from French cemeteries, their origins carefully obscured. Carrying white roses, Younger circled the flag-draped caskets. He prayed, feeling an arbitrary yet profound connection, finally choosing one that “something drew me to.”
The chosen soldier began his journey home aboard the USS Olympia, a storied battleship. But the Atlantic had a brutal welcome. Two powerful storms converged, turning the voyage into a desperate fight for survival. Twenty-foot waves crashed over the Olympia, which repeatedly rolled to a terrifying 39 degrees, teetering on the brink of capsizing. Marines, lashed to the ship, stood constant guard over the precious casket, fearing it would be swept into the raging sea. The commanding officer even sought divine intervention.
Miraculously, the Olympia battled through the tempest, delivering the Unknown Soldier safely to American shores. With great fanfare, he was laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery in a ceremony attended by presidents and heroes. Since 1925, this sacred tomb has been continuously guarded, a silent testament to ultimate sacrifice. Sgt. Younger, visiting in 1930, reflected, “I might have eaten, slept, and fought next to him.” The Unknown Soldier forever ensures the memory of those who gave their all lives on.
