One of the most sacred places in America is Arlington National Cemetery. Every year, heroes rest there. Families from across the country visit Arlington throughout the year to pay respects to their loved ones. Many families of American heroes who visit Arlington Cemetery may have the wrong grave. Arlington was once the home of George Washington's adopted grandson, George Washington Parke Custis ("Arlington" 4). Custis loved Washington so much that he wanted to make the house a memorial to him. When Custis died, Arlington was left to his daughter, Mary Ann Custis. Mary Ann was married to Robert E. Lee. They lived in the house until the start of the Civil War. During the war, the house was used as a Union military camp (Stein 7-10). The Union government declared Arlington a national cemetery on June 15, 1864 (reef 27). To be buried in Arlington, a person must be eligible for burial. Those who died on active duty and those who served for twenty years or more are permitted to be buried in Arlington. Others eligible for burial in Arlington are veterans who suffered a disability of 30 percent or more and were honorably discharged from the military before October 1, 1949. Recipients of decorations such as the Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Medal, Silver Star or Purple Heart also eligible for burial in Arlington. Burial of members of the presidential cabinet, other national elected officials and Supreme Court justices who served honorably in the military is also permitted. Burial is permitted for Presidents of the United States, also known as Commander and Chief of the Army (Reef 64). Not only are military heroes buried in Arlington, but memorials have also been built to honor those who gave their lives. lives for America. Memorials located throughout Arlington tell the stories of people throughout American history (Reef 43). Every year, families walk Arlington's endless rows of white headstones to pay tribute to those who gave their lives for America. One of the most visited graves in Arlington is that of President John F. Kennedy. President Kennedy traveled the world promoting friendship between the United States and other countries. Americans were shocked when he was shot and killed in Dallas, Texas, in 1963. His grave is marked with an eternal flame that will burn forever, reminding people of his accomplishments (Reef 44-46).