Obama honors fallen troops at Arlington Cemetery

Approximately 220000 American flags will be placed on every headstone in the cemetery before Memorial Day.

John Logan in 1868 when flowers were first laid on soldiers' graves at Arlington National Cemetery. “All veterans, and especially those who lay here, fought for and defended our freedoms,” Venezio said in introducing the quote.

By Charles Dharapak, AP Audience members pause after President Obama spoke at Monday's Memorial Day Observance at Arlington National Cemetery. By Charles Dharapak, AP Audience members pause after President Obama spoke at Monday's Memorial Day

Since 1868, Arlington National Cemetery has been the focal point of national Memorial Day commemorations. As the United States honors its fallen military heroes, explore eight surprising facts about one of the most sacred pieces of ground in America.

Explore eight surprising facts about Arlington National Cemetery, which has been the focal point of national Memorial Day commemorations since 1868.