As part of a Memorial Day tradition, soldiers placed 280,000 flags on the headstones of fallen service members at Arlington National Cemetery.
Videos by Rare
The tradition, which soldiers call “flags-in,” has been held every year since the 3rd U.S. Infantry, known as the “Old Guard,” was designated as the Army’s official ceremonial unit 70 years ago.
RELATED: On Memorial Day, President Trump honors those who have made the ultimate sacrifice
“It really pulls at your heartstrings as it reminds you that we’ll always be there, we’ll always honor our guys,” Staff Sergeant Jason Kohne added.
It takes nearly 1,000 soldiers to complete the ritual, and they also perform the same task at U.S. Soldiers’ and Airmen’s Home National Cemetery in Washington, D.C.
“I would do this every single year I could until I retire, if I could,” Army Pvt. Wes DeFee said. “It’s such an honor to help the families and support them with honor and respect.”