Who guards tomb of the unknown soldier?

Who Guards the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a revered war memorial located in Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia, USA. It is dedicated to the unidentified remains of service members who have died in combat, and is considered a symbol of respect, honor, and gratitude towards those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. But who guards the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?

The 3rd United States Infantry Regiment

The answer lies with the 3rd United States Infantry Regiment, also known as "The Old Guard." The 3rd Infantry Regiment is one of the oldest and most prestigious regiments in the United States Army, dating back to 1784. The regiment’s motto, "Noli Me Tangere," Latin for "Touch Me Not," reflects its long and storied history.

The History of Tomb Guard Duty

The tradition of guard duty at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier began on July 2, 1937, when two sentries from the 3rd Infantry Regiment first took up post at the tomb. The duty, known as "Tomb Guard Duty," is one of the most prestigious and demanding assignments in the U.S. Army. It requires soldiers to stand constant watch over the tomb, day and night, weathering all conditions, 365 days a year.

The Selection Process

Selection for Tomb Guard Duty is highly competitive and rigorous. Only the most well-trained and disciplined soldiers are chosen for this unique honor. The selection process involves a series of trials, including:

• A written exam on the Tomb’s history and significance
• A physical fitness test
• A mental fitness evaluation
• A review of the soldier’s military service record

Responsibilities of a Tomb Guard

As a Tomb Guard, soldiers are responsible for a range of duties, including:

• Standing watch at the tomb, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• Performing ceremonial duties, such as changing the guards and participating in wreath-laying ceremonies
• Maintaining the tomb and surrounding area, including the immaculate lawn and white grave markers
• Providing dignity and respect to the tomb and its occupants

Key Responsibilities:

• Continuous Vigilance: Soldiers must remain alert and awake at all times, always aware of their surroundings.
• Precision Drill and Ceremony: Guards must demonstrate exceptional drill and ceremony skills, including the precise firing of the rifle volley and the presentation of the flag during ceremonies.
• Punctuality and Attention to Detail: Guards must ensure that all ceremonies and guard changes are conducted on schedule, with precision and accuracy.

Some Interesting Facts

• The Average Tour of Duty: The average tour of duty as a Tomb Guard is one year, although some soldiers have served for up to three years.
• The Number of Guards: There are typically 17-20 Tomb Guards assigned to duty at any given time.
• Training and Education: Guards must undergo extensive training and education on the Tomb’s history, significance, and etiquette.
• Special Rules: Guards are not allowed to wear sunglasses, sunglasses, or any other reflective material while on duty.
• No Talking, No Smoking: Guards are not allowed to talk to each other or engage in any other distracting behavior while on duty.

Conclusion

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by service members who have given their lives in defense of their country. The men and women who guard this sacred site are among the most dedicated and disciplined in the U.S. military, and their service is a testament to the high esteem in which the U.S. Army holds the Tomb and its occupants.

Table: Tomb Guard Duty Statistics