Two presidents rest at Arlington National Cemetery: John F. Kennedy and William Howard Taft. Both lie within sight of the Tomb of the Unknowns on the hills above the Potomac River. Kennedy, the 35th president, is commemorated by an eternal flame at his gravesite following his assassination in 1963. Taft, the 27th president and later 10th chief justice of the United States, was laid to rest in 1930 near the Kennedy gravesite. While only these two presidents are buried at Arlington, other high-ranking U.S. military leaders and national figures are interred there as well. The following profile breakdown explains each site, their historical context, and why these particular presidents chose Arlington as their final resting place.
John F. Kennedy
John F. Kennedy, the 35th president of the United States, is buried at Arlington National Cemetery following his assassination on November 22, 1963. His gravesite features an eternal flame, lit at his request, and is located on a hillside near the Amphitheater. Kennedy’s burial at Arlington honors his leadership during the Cold War and his promise to public service. The site also includes a small granite memorial inscribed with his name and dates, and it remains a focal point for remembrance and national mourning. Visitors to Arlington can view the gravesite from a respectful distance, and rangers provide context about its significance within the cemetery’s landscape of honor.
Key Details of Kennedy’s Arlington Burial
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Date of Interment | November 25, 1963 | Arlington National Cemetery records |
| Gravesite Features | Eternal flame, limestone memorial, name inscribed | National Park Service / Arlington documentation |
| Location | Section 45, Hillside near the Amphitheater | Arlington burial database |
| Funeral Procession | March from the Capitol to Arlington via caisson | Historical news archives and official reports |
William Howard Taft
William Howard Taft, the 27th president of the United States and later the 10th chief justice of the United States, is buried at Arlington National Cemetery. He was laid to rest in 1930 in a gravesite located near what would become the John F. Kennedy burial site. Taft’s selection of Arlington reflects his distinguished service as both president and as head of the federal judiciary. His burial followed an extensive career in public service, including roles as Secretary of War and leader of the federal government during a period of significant domestic and international change.
Key Details of Taft’s Arlington Burial
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Date of Interment | March 11, 1930 | Arlington National Cemetery records |
| Gravesite Features | Simple granite marker, name and dates | Arlington burial documentation |
| Location | Section 30, near Kennedy gravesite | Arlington burial database |
| Prior Service | 27th president, 10th chief justice of the United States | Biographical archives |
Why Only Two Presidents at Arlington
Although Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place for thousands of military service members, foreign dignitaries, and national figures, only two U.S. presidents are buried there. This is because most presidents are either entombed at the United States Capitol, their presidential libraries, or private cemeteries in their home states. In the case of Kennedy and Taft, their burial at Arlington reflected personal wishes, family tradition, or professional ties to the military. For example, Kennedy’s burial aligned with his commitment to public service and the nation’s gratitude for his leadership. Taft’s selection highlighted his unique role at the intersection of the executive and judicial branches. As a result, Arlington preserves the legacy of these two leaders while focusing primarily on honoring those who served in uniform.
Arlington National Cemetery Today
Today, Arlington National Cemetery continues to serve as one of the nation’s most sacred memorial sites. Visitors can walk among rows of white headstones, attend daily ceremonies at the Tomb of the Unknowns, and learn about the lives of those who served. The Kennedy and Taft gravesites are part of the cemetery’s living history, reminding the public of the diverse paths that led individuals to this hallowed ground. Guided tours highlight notable interments, including those of two presidents, and underscore the cemetery’s role in national memory. Each visit offers an opportunity to reflect on service, sacrifice, and the enduring meaning of Arlington.
Visiting the Presidential Gravesites
Visitors interested in paying respects at the graves of John F. Kennedy and William Howard Taft should review current visiting guidelines before arriving at Arlington National Cemetery. Seasonal hours, security procedures, and ceremonial schedules can affect access to specific sections. Photography is generally permitted in designated areas, but visitors are asked to observe posted regulations and maintain a respectful demeanor. Official cemetery maps mark the locations of both gravesites and provide context for other notable burials. Planning ahead ensures a focused, meaningful experience at Arlington.