GREAT FALLS — The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery is one of the nation’s most sacred monuments. Built in 1921, the tomb is a venerable tribute to unknown American soldiers who died in combat.
The tomb’s inscription reads, “Here in honorable glory rests an American soldier known only to God,” symbolizing the ultimate sacrifice of those whose identities remain unknown. This striking memorial represents all unidentified soldiers who have died defending the United States.
It is guarded 24 hours a day, 365 days a year by the Tomb Guard, an elite unit of the 3rd US Infantry Regiment, also known as “The Old Guard”.
Founded in 1784, this unit is the oldest active infantry regiment in the U.S. Army. A highly disciplined group, the Tomb Guards are selected through a rigorous selection process and undergo extensive training to ensure they perform their duties with the utmost precision and respect.
These soldiers patrol the tomb in a careful pattern, maintaining constant vigil regardless of weather conditions, reflecting their unwavering commitment to honoring America’s fallen heroes.
Among these distinguished individuals was John Ranum of Great Falls, who served as guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from 1960 to 1961.
James Rolin
Ranum worked on the tomb for 14 months, completing a task that required both physical stamina and emotional strength.
His wife Joyce remembers the importance of his role and emphasizes the solemnity and silence that surrounds the area.
“As you approach the grave, there is a sign that says ‘Quiet.’ It’s a very respected place,” Joyce said. “And when people are talking in the stands, the guard admonishes them and asks them to be quiet.”
Guarding the tomb is a demanding task, but one that John undertook with dedication. He and his wife were well-known members of the Great Falls community and were involved in their hometown for many years.
John spent his post-military career selling farm equipment while Joyce worked in the Lutheran bishop’s office. Their lives were closely tied to service to their country and community.
Following John’s death on March 13, 2023, at the age of 86, his legacy was honored with a ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery on July 29. John was buried in the Columbarium at Arlington, a place reserved for those who have served their country with distinction.
“He had a brain tumor that set him back for about a month before he died,” Joyce said. “We had the funeral here in Great Falls and at his home church in Starbuck, Minnesota. And then he was buried in the columbarium on July 29.”
As Joyce reflected on John’s life, she was proud not only of his service as a gravekeeper, but also of the life they had built together.
“We met when he was a 47-year-old bachelor and I had three teenage sons. Of course, John was very proud to be a grave keeper. It was a big part of his life,” she recalls.
James Rolin
John Ranum’s story is a testament to the dedication of those who serve at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the profound impact that service has on their lives and the lives of those around them.
His legacy continues to be remembered and honored in both Great Falls and Arlington National Cemetery.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier remains a powerful symbol of sacrifice and a reminder of the cost of war.
Those who guard it, like John Ranum, are committed to ensuring that these unknown soldiers and the values they represent are never forgotten.
