How Many Guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a sacred resting place in Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia, dedicated to the unknown soldiers who have fought and died for their countries. One of the most striking and symbolic aspects of the tomb is the continuous ceremonial guard duty, which is performed 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. But how many guards are tasked with this sacred duty?
Contents
Why the Need for a Perpetual Guard
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was originally dedicated on November 11, 1921, to honor the unknown American service members who died during World War I. Over time, additional unknown soldiers were added, representing the military conflicts of World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.
The need for a perpetual guard duty arose from a desire to show respect, honor, and gratitude for the sacrifices made by these unknown soldiers. The symbolic significance of the guard extends beyond simply watching over the tomb, as it represents the eternal vigilance of the United States. The guard also serves as a reminder to the living of the sacrifice and courage of those who have fought and died in defense of their country.
The Guard Protocol
The Guard Protocol outlines the detailed procedures and customs followed by the guards tasked with protecting the Tomb. The protocol is designed to ensure a seamless and formal transition from one guard shift to the next, which takes place every 30 minutes during the day and every hour at night. The guard is responsible for:
- Standing Post: Maintaining a respectful and formal posture, both physically and mentally, when on duty.
- Watching for Threats: Vigilantly monitoring the surrounding area for any signs of trespassing, tampering, or other illegal activities.
- Mourner Protocol: Accurately identifying and authenticating all visitors, whether they be family members of the unknown soldiers or simple admirers.
- Tomb Maintenance: Making sure the tomb and its surroundings are clean, secure, and well-maintained at all times.
The Guard Forces
So, how many guards are actually assigned to protect the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier? The answer is surprisingly few. Each year, the Old Guard (3d United States Infantry Regiment, also known as the President’s Guard) selects an elite group of soldiers, typically in their early or mid-20s, to join the Tomb Guards. Only 9-15 soldiers are part of the Tomb Guard, with three guards on post at any given time: one main guard, two relief guards, and up to 4 additional standby guards.
Here is the breakdown:
| Position | Number |
|---|---|
| Main Guard | 1 |
| Relief Guard | 1 |
| Standby Guards | 2-4 |
| Total | 9-15 |
Rotations and Incentives
Tomb Guards go through an intensive training process, known as the Tomb Guard Ceremonial Honors program, which involves:
- Basic Military Training: Completing rigorous physical fitness and combat skills training.
- Sergeants Major Training Course: Studying the rules, procedures, and ceremonies surrounding the Tomb.
- Ride-Along Program: Accompanying experienced guards on duty for several days to learn by observation and hands-on participation.
As part of this training, Tomb Guards have the opportunity to participate in various special events, such as the annual Transfer of the Colors ceremony, the burial of unknown servicemen, and the presidential wreath-laying. Incentives include:
- Increased pay
- Enhanced unit cohesion
- Opportunities to participate in high-profile ceremonies
- A sense of pride and fulfillment in carrying out a sacred duty
Conclusion
The perpetual guard duty at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a sacred and solemn honor, with only a few select soldiers chosen to share this responsibility. Through their dedicated service, they embody the values of watchfulness, respect, and gratitude for the sacrifices of those who have fought and died in defense of the United States. In this sense, the fewer than 15 guards serving at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier are truly elite, setting an example of duty, honor, and country.
