99% Invisible The Known Unknown
Mar 6, 2019
Joe Rosenberg, a contributor with rich insights into the Tomb of the Unknowns, joins Patricia Blassie, sister of Michael Blassie, to share poignant stories behind this solemn memorial. They reflect on the historical significance of honoring unknown soldiers, particularly the emotional journey of identifying Michael Blassie’s remains after years of uncertainty. The discussion navigates themes of collective grief, evolving military recognition, and the intersection of personal loss with national remembrance.
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Origin of the Tomb
- World War I's mass casualties and dehumanizing nature inspired the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
- Chaplain David Railton envisioned a single soldier's grave to personalize the immense tragedy.
Adding to the Tomb
- The US added unknowns from later wars to the tomb, starting in 1956.
- The Vietnam War's unknown soldier, later identified as Michael Blassie, was chosen from only four unidentified sets of remains.
Michael Blassie
- Michael Blassie, Patricia's older brother, was a skilled pilot who joined the Air Force.
- He excelled in training and was deployed to Vietnam, flying the A-37 attack aircraft.
