Friends of the Borne de Terre Sacrée AT ARLINGTON

Recovering a lost legacy

Restoring the Sacred Soil Marker at Arlingon

Honoring French & American friendship and sacrifice

Friends of the Borne de Terre Sacrée at Arlington is a trans-Atlantic coalition dedicated to the restoration and ongoing stewardship of the “Sacred Soil Marker” placed by the French at Arlington National Cemetery to honor America’s World War I fallen

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This long-lost memorial, containing soil from World War I battlefields gathered by American Gold Star Mothers, will be rededicated in July 2026 as part of the activities commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America.

Origins

A memorial created by a combat veteran, inspired by trauma and loss (more »)

The Arlington Marker

A gift from French veterans, in gratitude for American courage and sacrifice (more »)

The Sacred Soil Tour

Gold Star Mothers are honoring the legacy of service of their own lost children (more »)

A shared 250-year heritage…

1776

Lafayette joins the American cause

France’s support ensures America’s independence .

1917

America Joins World War I

U.S. troops come to France’s aid, deepening bonds of friendship.

1929

Sacred Soil Marker Dedicated

French veterans place the original Borne de Terre Sacrée Memorial at Arlington to honor America’s World War I fallen.

1938

A Lost Memorial

The Borne de Terre Sacrée at Arlington is damaged and removed.

2026

Restoration

A trans-Atlantic coalition of partners restores the lost marker and brings back its traditions.

Friends of the Borne de Terre Sacrée at Arlington

Friends of the Borne de Terre Sacrée at Arlington is dedicated to the restoration and ongoing stewardship of the Sacred Soil Marker placed by the French at Arlington National Cemetery to honor America's World War I fallen.