The Eternal Vigil: Who Guards the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?
Contents
Introduction
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a potent symbol of military sacrifice, honoring the countless soldiers who have given their lives for their country without their families ever knowing their fate. Located in Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia, the monument is guarded by a solemn and dedicated unit of armed forces personnel 24/7, ensuring that this sacred site is protected at all costs. But who is responsible for the never-ending duty? The answer lies in the history of the Tomb, the military tradition, and the units that have played a key role in guarding this most revered spot.
A Brief History of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
On November 11, 1921, the burial of the first Unknown Soldier took place in Arlington National Cemetery. This marked a significant moment in American military history, as it sought to honor the unknown brave men who had died on European battlefields during World War I. The US Army, the US Marine Corps, the US Navy, and the US Army Air Corps came together to form the Tomb’s first guard. The group was initially led by three officers, who took shifts to ensure that the resting place was guarded at all times.
Over the years, the Tomb has changed, but its significance and the commitment to guarding it have remained unchanged. Following World War II, in 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower decided to rebury the original Unknown Soldier’s remains beneath the Memorial Amphitheater, and in 1973, the Current Tomb was completed, featuring the now-iconic bronze statue "The Shadow of the Monument."
The Current Guardians: United States Army Old Guard Ceremonial Cavalry (USO GC)
Since 1998, the United States Army’s Old Guard Ceremonial Cavalry (USO GC) has been tasked with the exclusive privilege of guarding the Tomb. The Old Guard Ceremonial Cavalry Regiment is one of the few units in the US Armed Forces that combines the expertise of a mounted cavalry and a ceremonial honor guard, making them uniquely qualified to perform this duty.
| Branch | Component | Title |
|---|---|---|
| United States Army | Ceremonial Cavalry Regiment | United States Army Old Guard Ceremonial Cavalry (USO GC) |
| Other Units That Have Guarded the Tomb | Multiple | Tomb Guard |
| Units That Contribute to Tomb Guard Function | Other | Ranger, Scout, Snipers, MP, Admin, Support Units |
Traditional Duties of the Guard
The guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier are responsible for ensuring 24/7 security, vigilance, and adherence to protocol. Each guard takes an imperishable oath of loyalty before beginning duty, swearing to defend and protect the resting place:
- Rituals and traditions: Following a specific ritual, a new guard begins their two-week rotation.
- Watch changes: Every 30 minutes, there is a formal shift change, known as "relief."
- Taps Ceremony: From dusk till dawn, Taps is performed every hour.
- Changing of the Guard: Formal ceremonies and speeches mark a soldier’s start and end of guard duty.
Giving Meaning to the Guardian’s Role
The Tomb’s guards wear Class-A uniform dress and "Follow Me" hats when on duty, signifying their dedication and commitment. Their unyielding vigilance reflects the United States’ solemn promise to honor and respect the Unknown Soldiers :
- Sentinel: A symbol of honor
The Tomb Guard serves as the embodiment of the American ideals that the Unknown Soldier represents. Their watchfulness and strength symbolize the unwavering commitment of the fallen soldiers to the nation’s cause. - Etiquette and Protocol
The guards meticulously adhere to specific rituals and unwritten rules, ensuring utmost respect for the Tomb. Their formal demeanor emphasizes the importance of safeguarding the monument and their duty to represent the honored dead.
Conclusion: The Unyielding Service
The United States Army Old Guard Ceremonial Cavalry Regiment has successfully carried on the tradition of guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Their extraordinary dedication, respect, and commitment to upholding American values and ideals have perpetuated the nation’s dedication to honoring its fallen service members.
