When most people in Northern Virginia think of Quantico they think of MCB Quantico. That is only natural since it is one of the largest USMC bases in the world and one of the larger employers in Northern Virginia. However, the American flag flies over 3 places named Quantico.
1. The Town of Quantico is totally surrounded by MCB Quantico. It only has a population of about 600 people, but Marines take full advantage of the off base services it provides. Although our flag flies throughout Quantico it is probably one of the only towns in the US that flies the flag from parking meters.
2. MCB Quantico is a 59,000 acre military base which is home to the USMC Combat Development Command, the FBI Academy and the DEA training facility. Of course, the most prominent flag on base is the American flag above the replica of the Iwo Jima statue at the entrance on US 1.
3. Quantico National Cemetery The DOD donated 725 acres to the Veterans Administration to open a national cemetery on the grounds of MCB Quantico. It was formally dedicated 25 years ago in 1983. Over 18,000 deceased members of the military are currently resting at peace there. Most visitors are surprised to not see any crosses there as they do at Arlington National Cemetery. Grave markers are laid horizontally facing upward.
Four times a year flags donated by survivors are displayed on the Avenue of Flags - the days are Veterans Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day and Flag Day.
I periodically visit the cemetery - I have 2 friends and 1 comrade interred there.
To Conclude The first 2 pictures below are of Quantico and MCB Quantico while the rest were taken at Quantico National Cemetery - they really do not need commentary.
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