Families of U.S. veterans say a planned observation deck on President Donald Trump’s proposed Washington arch could intrude on privacy at Arlington National Cemetery. CNN reported the deck would sit 166 feet above ground and overlook the cemetery.
The arch is proposed for Memorial Circle, between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery. CNN correspondent Sunlen Serfaty said Arlington holds 24 to 27 military funerals each week. Gold Star families—those who lost an immediate family member while that person was on active duty—were among those concerned; one veteran told CNN the viewing deck could compromise the ceremonies’ solemn, private nature.
CNN said the White House did not respond to its questions. A White House spokesperson told Serfaty that the White House believes the arch would “enhance the visitor experience” at Arlington for veterans, families of the fallen and all Americans.
