ARLINGTON, Va. – The temporary flame that has been operating at the gravesite of President John F. Kennedy and his family since April 29 was removed today and the new burner at the Eternal Flame has been relit.
Contractors working for the Norfolk District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers removed the temporary flame and the white fencing surrounding the JFK gravesite. The Eternal Flame has been undergoing upgrades since this winter.
Upgrades include:
• Installing new gas lines, automated controls, new electrical conduit and cable, and an energy-efficient system
• Relocating gas pressure regulators from inside to outside the vault to provide easier maintenance and access, and
• Fabricating new burner assemblies that are naturally aspirated to reduce maintenance and utility costs.
This is only the second time a temporary flame has been used at the site. The first time was Nov. 25, 1963, when President Kennedy was laid to rest.
Underground work continues and is expected to be complete by late May 2013.