What Military Branch Guards the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a sacred site located in Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia, United States. The tomb is dedicated to honoring the unidentified remains of American service members who have died in combat and have no known grave. The Tomb is guarded 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, by a specific military unit. But which military branch is responsible for this honorable duty?
The United States Army
The United States Army is the military branch responsible for guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The 3rd United States Infantry Regiment, also known as "The Old Guard," has been responsible for this duty since 1937. The Old Guard is an elite regiment that has a long history of serving the nation with honor and distinction.
History of the Tomb and the Guard
The idea of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier dates back to World War I, when the United States began recovering and identifying the remains of fallen soldiers. However, it wasn’t until the end of World War II that the concept of a memorial to honor the unidentified dead began to take shape. The first Unknown Soldier was brought to the United States and interred in Arlington National Cemetery in 1921.
In 1937, the 3rd United States Infantry Regiment was tasked with guarding the Tomb. The regiment’s motto, "Noli Me Tangere" (Touch Me Not), is inscribed on the walls of the Tomb and is a reminder of the solemn duty of the guards to respect the Unknown Soldier.
Responsibilities of the Guard
The guards assigned to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier are responsible for:
• 24-hour watch: The guards remain at their post for 24 hours, with each guard serving for 1-2 hours at a time.
• Inspection: The guards perform a strict inspection of the Tomb and the surrounding area to ensure it is spotless and in order.
• Change of Watch: The guards participate in a formal Change of Watch ceremony, which involves a detailed handover of responsibility from one guard to another.
• Sentry Duty: The guards are responsible for standing watch and patrolling the area around the Tomb.
Requirements to Join the Guard
Joining the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is an honor reserved for a select few. To be eligible, soldiers must:
• Be an enlisted member of the United States Army
• Have at least two years of active duty service
• Meet physical fitness standards
• Pass a rigorous training program that includes 12 weeks of basic training, followed by specialized training on the Tomb’s protocols and procedures
Interesting Facts
• The guard’s rifle: The M-14 rifle used by the guards is loaded with blank ammunition, and is only used during the changing of the guard ceremony.
• The guard’s shoes: The guards’ shoes are polished to a high shine and are only replaced every 30 days.
• The guard’s uniform: The guards’ uniforms are custom-made and are only replaced every 30 days.
• The guard’s duty: The guards are not allowed to wear sunglasses, earrings, or have facial hair while on duty.
Conclusion
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a sacred site that honors the ultimate sacrifice of American service members who have given their lives in defense of the nation. The 3rd United States Infantry Regiment, also known as "The Old Guard," has been responsible for guarding the Tomb since 1937. The guards are handpicked from the United States Army and undergo rigorous training to ensure they are prepared to perform their duties with the utmost respect and honor.
Table: Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Guard Rotation
| Guard | Tour of Duty | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individual Guard | 1-2 hours | Continuous | 24-hour watch |
| Guard Platoon | 8 hours | Daily | Morning and evening watch |
| Officer of the Day | 24 hours | Daily | Supervises the guards |
References
- Arlington National Cemetery: Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
- United States Army: 3rd United States Infantry Regiment
- The Old Guard: Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Guard
- History.com: Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
By understanding the significance of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the role of the 3rd United States Infantry Regiment in guarding it, we can better appreciate the sacrifices made by American service members and the importance of honoring their memories.
