Controversy Surrounds Arlington National Cemetery’s Section 60: What Makes This Area So Significant?

Arlington National Cemetery, located just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., stands as one of the most hallowed grounds in the United States. The cemetery, established in 1864 during the Civil War, is the final resting place for over 400,000 military service members, veterans, and their families. Among the various sections of this vast cemetery, one area has garnered particular attention in recent years: Section 60. Known as the “saddest acre in America,” Section 60 is the burial ground for many of the fallen soldiers who served in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. This 14-acre plot of land has become a focal point for the nation’s collective grief, pride, and ongoing debates about the costs of war.

The Origins of Section 60

Arlington National Cemetery’s origins are rooted in the Civil War. The land was originally part of the estate of Confederate General Robert E. Lee, which was confiscated by the U.S. government as the war raged on. Over time, Arlington expanded to accommodate the growing number of war dead from subsequent conflicts, including World Wars I and II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Section 60 was not formally designated until much later, as the need arose for a dedicated area to honor those who fought in the post-9/11 conflicts.

The first burials in what is now Section 60 began in the early 2000s, as American military operations intensified in Afghanistan and Iraq. This section quickly filled with the graves of young men and women who lost their lives in these distant lands. Today, Section 60 contains roughly 900 graves, each marking a life cut short in service to the nation.

A Place of Mourning and Remembrance

Section 60 is often described as a place where “the war comes home.” It is a section of the cemetery that feels different from the rest—more intimate, more raw. Visitors to Section 60 often see personal mementos left by loved ones: letters, photographs, stuffed animals, and military tokens. These items speak to the deep personal connections that still exist between the fallen soldiers and those they left behind.

For many families, Section 60 is a place of pilgrimage. Mothers, fathers, spouses, and children of the fallen visit regularly, tending to the graves and finding solace among others who share their grief. It is not uncommon to see families sitting quietly by a gravestone, sharing stories, or simply reflecting on the life of their loved one. This section of Arlington serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of war—a cost that is often borne by those who are left behind.

Allison Jaslow, an Iraq War veteran and CEO of the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), has spoken about the significance of Section 60, calling it “a humbling reminder of how some of us were lucky enough to make it home.” For veterans like Jaslow, visiting Section 60 is both a way to honor their fallen comrades and to confront the complex emotions that come with surviving a war that claimed so many lives.

Controversy and Debate

Section 60 has not only been a place of mourning but also a site of controversy. In recent years, it has become the center of public debates about the intersection of politics and military service. One notable incident occurred in August 2024, when former President Donald Trump’s campaign attempted to stage a photo opportunity in Section 60. The incident sparked an altercation with cemetery staff, who objected to the use of the site for political purposes.

The controversy highlighted the delicate balance that must be maintained at Arlington National Cemetery, where the solemnity of the site must be preserved against the backdrop of the often-contentious nature of American politics. The cemetery has strict rules against political activity, but the line between honoring the fallen and using their memory for political gain can sometimes be blurred. The incident served as a reminder of the need to respect the sanctity of this sacred ground and to ensure that it remains a place of honor, rather than a stage for political posturing.

The Emotional Weight of Section 60

Robert Poole, author of Section 60: Arlington National Cemetery, Where the War Comes Home, has described the area as a place where “the emotions are closer to the surface.” Unlike other parts of Arlington, where the passage of time has softened the grief, Section 60 is still raw with the pain of recent loss. The youth of many of the service members buried there adds to the emotional impact—these are graves of men and women who were in the prime of their lives, cut down before they could fully realize their potential.

Visitors to Section 60 often remark on the stark contrast between the orderly rows of white headstones and the vibrant personal items left at the graves. These items are a testament to the enduring love and memories that family members hold for the deceased. The sight of these mementos can be heartbreaking, yet they also serve as a powerful reminder of the individual lives that make up the broader narrative of war.

Section 60 as a Reflection of National Values

Section 60 is more than just a burial ground; it is a reflection of America’s values and the sacrifices made to uphold them. The soldiers buried there represent the best of the nation—those who answered the call to serve, knowing full well the dangers they faced. Their graves stand as a testament to their bravery and dedication, as well as a reminder of the heavy toll that war takes on individuals and families.

The ongoing presence of grieving families and veterans at Section 60 speaks to the deep respect that Americans have for their military. It also underscores the importance of providing support to those who have lost loved ones in service to the country. Organizations like the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America play a crucial role in advocating for these families and ensuring that their sacrifices are not forgotten.

The Future of Section 60

As the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan recede into history, Section 60 will remain a place of national significance. It will continue to serve as a poignant reminder of the costs of war and the sacrifices made by those who serve. The personal items left at the graves will tell the stories of the individuals buried there, keeping their memories alive for future generations.

In time, the grief that hangs over Section 60 may soften, just as it has in other parts of Arlington. But the significance of this section will endure, reminding all who visit of the price of freedom and the profound impact of war on the lives of those who fight and those who wait for them at home. As a nation, it is our responsibility to honor the memory of those buried in Section 60 and to ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten.