The eternal flame marking the gravesite of former US President John F. Kennedy was returned at the National Cemetery in Arlington on Tuesday. Repair of the components of the burner of the permanent eternal flame started in April. Aside from installing new lines for gas and air, contractors also set up a new burner assembly. Drainage lines under the flame were also placed.

A temporary burner still lighted the memorial while the repairs were carried out. After burning for more than forty years, officials said the repairs were necessary. The new equipment would make the flame easier to maintain, cemetery officials said.

JFK's gravesite was constructed by Aberthaw Construction in 1965. The firm was awarded a USD 1.4 million contract to build the memorial by the Army Corps of Engineers. They consulted the Kennedy family before awarding the contract. Architecture and engineering firm Ammann & Whitney was also awarded a second contract amounting to USD 71,026 for structural design consulting for the gravesite.