Glenn Miller orchestra leader who disappeared crossing the English Channel

On My Walk at Arlington National Cemetery – The Empty Grave of Glenn Miller

On my walk at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C., I discovered the empty grave of one of America’s most iconic big band leaders and composers — Glenn Miller.

Alton Glenn “Glenn” Miller was a renowned bandleader, arranger, composer, trombonist, and one of the most influential recording artists of the swing era. His music defined a generation, with hits like “Moonlight Serenade” (his signature theme) and the first-ever gold record, “Chattanooga Choo Choo.”

At the peak of his commercial success, Glenn Miller made a selfless decision — he joined the U.S. military to entertain troops during World War II. But on December 15, 1944, while flying from England to France to prepare for a performance for the Allied forces, his plane vanished over the English Channel. Glenn Miller was never seen again. His disappearance remains one of music’s greatest mysteries.

Nearly 50 years later, at the request of his daughter, a memorial headstone was placed at Arlington. The white marble marker, engraved with “Major Alton Glenn Miller – U.S. Army (Air Corps)” and “Bronze Star Medal” on the back.

Glenn Miller disappeared on December 15, 1944. He was 40 years old.

1904-1944