The Silent Sentinel at the Los Angeles National Cemetery

Well, I believe that I have found what may be the most unimposing Civil War monument ever. Near the Sepulveda Blvd entrance to the Los Angeles National Cemetery stands a solitary Union soldier, on top of a rock, at parade rest. There is nothing particularly remarkable about this statue, except perhaps for the lack of a clear message. There are no inscriptions...and nothing denoting cause or comrades. Without close inspection, one could wonder whether or not this was even a Union soldier. The presence of a small "US" belt plate betrays the soldier's allegiance. But that is all. Does he commemorate Union? Emancipation? Or does he simply stand guard over his fallen comrades, which in this case, happen to be WWII soldiers?

I suspect that his silence speaks to each of us individually - make of him what you will...his very presence will get you thinking.

With compliments,

Keith