How Many Soldiers Guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a grave dedicated to the unidentified remains of military personnel who have died in combat and been buried anonymously. It is a symbol of respect, honor, and sacrifice for those who have given their lives in service to their country. But have you ever wondered how many soldiers guard this sacred tomb? In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and delve deeper into the significance of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
How Many Soldiers Guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?
The answer to this question is: Three. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is guarded 24 hours a day, 365 days a year by three United States Army soldiers. These soldiers are handpicked from the elite 3rd United States Infantry Regiment, also known as "The Old Guard."
Selection Process
To become a Tomb Guard, soldiers must meet specific qualifications and undergo rigorous training. The selection process is highly competitive, and only the best of the best are chosen. Here are the criteria:
- Must have served in the Army: Only active-duty Army personnel are eligible to become Tomb Guards.
- Must have at least 1 year of service: Guards must have at least one year of service before applying.
- Must be a non-commissioned officer: Guards must hold the rank of E-4 (Corporal) or higher.
- Must have a strong physical and mental condition: Guards must be in top physical shape and have excellent mental endurance.
- Must pass a rigorous evaluation: Candidates must pass a series of evaluations, including a physical fitness test, a written exam, and a practical test.
Training
Once selected, Tomb Guards undergo an intensive training program that includes:
- Physical training: Guards must be in top physical shape to perform their duties.
- Ceremonial training: Guards learn the intricacies of military ceremonies and traditions.
- Protocol training: Guards learn the correct procedures for handling flags, coins, and other ceremonial items.
- Intelligence training: Guards learn about the history and significance of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Duties
As a Tomb Guard, the duties include:
- Standing watch: Guards stand watch for 24 hours a day, ensuring the tomb is always protected.
- Performing ceremonies: Guards participate in daily ceremonies, including the Changing of the Guard and the Wreath-Laying Ceremony.
- Maintaining the tomb: Guards ensure the tomb is clean and well-maintained at all times.
Facts and Figures
Here are some interesting facts and figures about the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier:
| Fact | Figure |
|---|---|
| Number of Tomb Guards | 3 |
| Number of years of service required | 1 year |
| Number of applications received per year | Over 500 |
| Number of Guards selected per year | 12-15 |
| Length of the duty tour | 3 days |
| Number of tours per year | 90-100 |
Conclusion
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a symbol of respect, honor, and sacrifice for those who have given their lives in service to their country. The three soldiers who guard this sacred tomb are the epitome of dedication, honor, and duty. They are the best of the best, handpicked from the elite 3rd United States Infantry Regiment, and are trained to perfection to ensure the tomb is always protected and respected.
In conclusion, the answer to the question "How many soldiers guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?" is Three. These three soldiers are an integral part of the country’s military tradition and serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have served and continue to serve in the United States Armed Forces.
