Arlington National Cemetery’s Iran Rescue Mission Monument honors eight U.S. servicemen killed during a daring 1980 rescue attempt for American hostages in Tehran.
Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia
10-15 Minutes
Spring, Fall
Free
Overview
Walking through Arlington National Cemetery and pausing at the Iran Rescue Mission Monument is a powerful way to honor U.S. history and the sacrifice of service members.
Arlington National Cemetery is one of the nation’s most historic and moving travel destinations, where rolling rows of white headstones and solemn memorials tell the story of America’s military past. Among the many sites, the Iran Rescue Mission Monument commemorates the eight American service members who died during Operation Eagle Claw, an attempted rescue of hostages in Iran in April 1980.
In April 1980, a secret military operation to rescue 53 Americans held hostage in Tehran ended tragically when aircraft collided in the Iranian desert, killing eight U.S. service personnel. The Iran Rescue Mission Monument at Arlington National Cemetery stands to remember their sacrifice. Originally dedicated in 1983 and later positioned near memorials for the Space Shuttle Challenger and Columbia disasters in Section 46, the monument underscores the cost of service and the cemetery’s role as a place of remembrance.
Iran Rescue Mission Monument Plan
When visiting Arlington National Cemetery, we wanted to see as much of the area as possible. Most go just for the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and miss the rest of the monuments and memorials. We got a map from the Welcome Center and tried to walk to as many of the marked memorials as possible.
Getting There
Location
The best times to visit Arlington National Cemetery are spring and fall, when the weather is mild and crowds are lighter. Aim for early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak visitor traffic and make the most of your walk between memorials.
Best Time to Go
The best times to visit Arlington National Cemetery are spring and fall, when the weather is mild and crowds are lighter. Aim for early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak visitor traffic and make the most of your walk between memorials.
Iran Rescue Mission Monument
Who Can Go?
Arlington National Cemetery is open daily to the public, with security screening at the Welcome Center; visitors of all ages are welcome to explore its history and pay respects.
What You'll See
Expect to see hallowed grounds filled with military headstones, poignant memorials like the Iran Rescue Mission Monument, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Kennedy’s gravesite, and the grand Arlington Memorial Amphitheater.
The Iran Rescue Mission Monument
What to Bring & Wear
Comfortable walking shoes, water, sun protection, respectful attire, and your camera are must‑haves for touring the cemetery’s 639 acres.
Where to Go
From the Welcome Center, head toward the Memorial Amphitheater and then follow signs or your ANC Explorer map to Section 46 where the Iran Rescue Mission Monument sits near other memorials — it’s a meaningful stop among Arlington’s many historical highlights.
How Long Does it Take?
Set aside at least 10-15 minutes to reflect at places like the Iran Rescue Mission Monument.
Cost
Visiting Arlington National Cemetery is free; there’s no admission fee, though parking or shuttle tours may have associated costs.
Tips for the Iran Rescue Mission Monument in Arlington National Cemetery
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and heat.
- Use the ANC Explorer app for navigation.
- Respect cemetery etiquette — speak quietly and refrain from food or recreational activities.
- Bring water, especially in summer.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
- Check Metro schedules for smooth arrival and departure.