First Flight: the Epic World Flight Mission of the United States Army Air Service in the 1920s

In the early 1920s, many countries wanted to be the first to fly Around-the-World- air flight successfully. The British tried in 1922 but failed, and then a French team tried in 1923. That same year, the Italians and the Portuguese said they would also try. The British also decided to give it another shot. The … Read more

Discover the Oldest Catholic Cemetery in Virginia: St. Mary’s Catholic Church Cemetery

Historic Context The historic St. Mary’s Catholic Church Cemetery is situated at 1000 S. Royal Street, Alexandria, VA 22314, and boasts a rich history dating all the way back to 1795. Holding the distinction of being the oldest Catholic Cemetery in Virginia, this sacred ground has become a testament to the passage of time. Within … Read more

The Alexandria National Cemetery

The Alexandria National Cemetery, originally called the Soldiers Cemetery, has over 4300 burials, including the graves of 249 United States Color Troops (U.S.C.T) who served in the Civil War. The cemetery is one of the first Federal cemeteries where white and black soldiers are buried together per a military order of 1864. The Alexandria National … Read more