A Level of Silence and Respect.

[Rashid.bk]

Thought I'd share this if you haven't seen it. Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
A sentinel reminds visitors of the place where they are at, and in case you are wondering, their weapons are functional.

The Sentinel does not wear rank so as to not outrank a soldier at rest. He is under the "command" of those which he guards, his duty is unequivocal and beyond reproach.
It is a place of Honor.
I always take a moment to reflect on those that are no longer with us, life is fragile. I have said goodbye to many, but we will reunite one day.

And remember, there is always a new threat, and our boy and girls are still out there right now trying to keep it away....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bsdHxUXf2CE

[cop414]

That was excellent!
Very disheartening in reference to the disrespect but great as to how it was handed.

[THC]

What is wrong with people... When I viewed this, they had 16 thumbs up and over 550 thumbs down... Who would thumb down this? Very sad

[cop414]

Why would anyone give that a thumbs down, unless they were referring to the disrespect being shown...?

[linesiders]

Sadly there is a disconnect between those that do their duty for others, those that have paid the highest price, and the others.

[james1787]

Originally Posted by cop414

Why would anyone give that a thumbs down, unless they were referring to the disrespect being shown...?

That's what I'm hoping, Tim. I've seen that video before.. that was very disrespectful of those people who were talking / laughing. The guard did the right thing.

I've been to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier once a long time ago when our family went to DC. It's someplace folks should visit if they're ever in the DC area. It is definitely a moving experience to see Arlington Cemetery. I don't really know how to put it into words.. to see all those who gave their lives to protect the freedoms we enjoy.

[cop414]

Thanks James, it's on my bucket list.

[beer]

Originally Posted by cop414

Why would anyone give that a thumbs down, unless they were referring to the disrespect being shown...?

unfortunately if you look at certain breed of teenager and even adult who has access to the internet now you will find this is wrong

luckily a lack of balls means they usually stick to the internet but as shown by this video they will occasionally venture into the real world when they can find a victim who will not retaliate

[skprd13]

I am hoping like you Tim the disrespect that took placemats the reason for thumbs down. How could you not watch that an feel pride for the USA!

[cop414]

I hope so too Tom, sadly we'll never know.

[antbkny]

[donas]

There are many interesting facts about that duty if anyone is interested enough to look into it. It is very hard to get assigned to, height / weight requirements, hours upon hours of time put into their uniform prior to every post etc. They have actually been relieved of duty on a few occasions due to very severe weather and the soldiers have always denied the relief and remained on post, from what I've read.

[Relyt]

I've had the opportunity to watch this in person. Absolute perfection.

More fun facts: wear sunglasses in dress uniform due to the reflection of the ground to keep from hurting their eyes.

Haircuts I believe are daily.




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[wantonebad]

Originally Posted by Relyt

I've had the opportunity to watch this in person. Absolute perfection.

More fun facts: wear sunglasses in dress uniform due to the reflection of the ground to keep from hurting their eyes.

Haircuts I believe are daily.




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X2

My uncle was buried in Arlington last year after 30 years in the Army/Air-force.

FAQ's on the tomb of the unknowns: https://tombguard.org/society/faq/

Frequently Asked Questions
How does the guard rotation work? Is it an 8 hour shift?


Currently, the Tomb Guards work on a three Relief (team) rotation - 24 hours on, 24 hours off, 24 hours on, 24 hours off, 24 hours on, 96 hours off. However, over the years it has been different. The time off isn't exactly free time. It takes the average Sentinel 8 hours to prep their uniform for the next work day. Additionally, they have Physical Training, Tomb Guard training, and haircuts to complete before the next work day.


How many steps does the Sentinel take during their 'walk' by the Tomb of the Unknowns and why?


Twenty-one steps. It alludes to the twenty-one gun salute, which is the highest honor given any military or foreign dignitary.


How long does the Sentinel hesitate after the facing movement to begin the return walk? Is the rifle carried on the same shoulder all the time?


The Sentinel does not execute an about face, rather they stop on the 21st step, then turn and face the Tomb for 21 seconds. They then turn to face back down the mat, change the weapon to the outside shoulder, mentally count off 21 seconds, then step off for another 21 step walk down the mat. They face the Tomb at each end of the 21 step walk for 21 seconds. The Sentinel then repeats this over and over until the Guard Change ceremony begins.


Why are the Sentinel's gloves wet?


Gloves are moistened to improve the grip on the rifle.


How often are the Guards changed?


The Guard is changed every thirty minutes during the summer (April 1 to Sep 30) and every hour during the winter (Oct 1 to Mar 31). During the hours the cemetery is closed, the guard is changed every 2 hours. The Tomb is guarded, and has been guarded, every minute of every day since 1937.


Is it true a Sentinel must commit for two years to guard the Tomb, live in a barracks under the tomb, and cannot drink any alcohol on or off duty for the rest of their lives.


No, this is a false rumor. The average tour at the Tomb is about a 18 months. However, there is NO set time for service there. Sentinels live either in a barracks on Ft. Myer (the Army post located adjacent to the cemetery) or off base if they like. They do have a living quarters under the steps of the amphitheater where they stay during their 24 hour shifts. If they are of legal age, they may drink except while on duty.


Is it true they cannot swear in public for the rest of their lives?


Again, another false rumor.


Is it true after two years, the guard is given a wreath pin that is worn on their lapel signifying they served as Guard of the Tomb, that there are only 600 presently worn, and that the Guard must obey these rules for the rest of their lives or give up the wreath pin?


The Tomb Guard Identification Badge (TGIB) is awarded after the Sentinel passes a series of tests. The TGIB is permanently awarded after a Sentinel has served nine months as a Sentinel at the Tomb. Over 600 have been awarded since its creation in the late 1950's (on average 10 per year). And while the TGIB can be revoked, the offense must be such that it discredits the Tomb of the Unknowns. Revocation is at the 3rd Infantry Regimental Commander’s discretion and can occur while active duty or even when the Sentinel is a civilian. The TGIB is a full size award, worn on the right pocket of the uniform jacket, not a lapel pin.


Are the shoes specially made with very thick soles to keep the heat and cold from their feet?


The shoes are standard issue military dress shoes. They are built up so the sole and heel are equal in height. This allows the Sentinel to stand with a straight back and perpendicular to the ground. A side effect of this is that the Sentinel can "roll" on the outside of the build up walking down the mat. Done correctly, the hat and bayonet will appear to not "bob" up and down with each step. It gives a more formal, fluid and smooth look to the walk, rather than a "marching" appearance.
The soles have a steel tip on the toe and a "horseshoe" steel plate on the heel. This prevents wear on the sole and allows the Sentinel to move smoothly during his movements when he turns to face the Tomb and then back down the mat.
Then there is the "clicker". It is a shank of steel attached to the inside of the face of the heel build-up on each shoe. It allows the Sentinel to heel click during certain movements. A guard change is considered great when all the heel clicks fall together and sound as one click. The guard change is occasionally done in the "silent" mode (as a sign of devotion to the Unknowns) with no voice commands - every thing is done in relation to the heel clicks and on specific counts.


How many times will a Sentinel be on duty during the shift?


Each Relief has a 24 hour rotational work day. Ideally, four qualified Sentinels, one Relief Commander (RC), one Assistant Relief Commander (ARC), and several Sentinels in training comprise the Relief. The daily walk schedule is made by the RC or ARC and is dependent on the number of Sentinels who are proficient enough to guard the Tomb in front of the public. Generally, the Sentinel will do several walks back to back and then be done for the day. However, in extreme cases, Sentinels have been known to go back-to-back (every other walk) for the entire shift.


How do the Soldiers get to and from the quarters without being seen?


Most wear civilian clothes - although the short, tight haircuts tend to give them away.


There is a small green shack next to the Tomb. What is it for?


'The Box' (as it is affectionately known) is used primarily during wreath laying ceremonies for the Sentinel to retreat to while flowers and Taps are being presented. There also is a phone with a direct line downstairs to the Tomb Guard Quarters. This is used in times of emergencies or just to notify the next shift of something.


Has anyone ever tried to get past the Tomb guards, or attempted to deface the Tomb?


Yes, that is the reason why we now guard the Tomb. Back in the early 1920's, we didn't have guards and the Tomb looked much different. It was flat at ground level without the 70 ton marble 'cap'. People often came to the cemetery in those days and a few actually used the Tomb as a picnic area, likely because of the view. Soon after in 1925, they posted a civilian guard. In 1926, a US Army soldier was posted during cemetery hours. On July 1, 1937 guard duty was expanded to the 24 hour watch. Since then, the ceremony has evolved throughout the years to you see today. Today, most of the challenges faced by the Sentinels are tourists who are speaking too loudly or attempting to get a better picture (by entering the post).


What happened to the soldier that was in the Tomb from the Vietnam War?


The remains of the Vietnam Unknown Soldier were exhumed May 14, 1998. Based on mitochondrial DNA testing, DoD scientists identified the remains as those of Air Force 1st Lt. Michael Joseph Blassie, who was shot down near An Loc, Vietnam, in 1972. It has been decided that the crypt that contained the remains of the Vietnam Unknown will remain vacant. (Further Background) (News Article from the Department of Defense)


What is it like to guard in bad weather?


The Sentinels at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier are completely dedicated to their duty of guarding the Tomb. In fact, line eight of our Sentinel's Creed refers to the "discomfort of the elements". Because of their dedication, the weather does not bother them. In fact, it is considered an honor to walk the mat during inclement weather. It gets cold, it gets hot and the mission continues as it has unbroken since 1937.


Do you guard in a blizzard or a bad thunderstorm?


YES, but the accomplishment of the mission and welfare of the Soldier is never put at risk. The Tomb Guards have contingencies that are ready to be executed if the weather conditions ever place the Soldiers at risk of injury or death (i.e. lightning, high winds, etc). This ensures that Sentinels can continue the mission while ensuring safety. It is the responsibility of the Chain of Command from the Sergeant of the Guard to the Regimental Commander to ensure mission accomplishment and soldier welfare at all times.
It was erroneously reported that during Hurricane Isabel, the Sentinels were ordered to abandon their posts for shelter and that they refused. No such order was ever given. All proper precautions were taken to ensure the safety of the Sentinels while accomplishing their mission. Risk assessments are constantly conducted by the Chain of Command during changing conditions to ensure that soldier welfare is maintained during mission accomplishment.


Do you guard all night long, even when the cemetery is closed?


The Tomb is guarded 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In fact, there has been a Sentinel on duty in front of the Tomb every minute of every day since 1937.


How many Sentinels have been female?


There have been over 630 tomb guards awarded the badge since 1958 when we started counting. There are hundreds more from the year 1926 when the Army started guarding the Tomb. The 3rd US Infantry (The Old Guard) is the unit that has been given the duty of guarding the Tomb. It was given this sacred duty in 1948. The Old Guard was -- and still is -- considered a combat unit. As an Infantry unit, females were not permitted in the ranks for many years. It wasn't until 1994 that females were permitted to volunteer to become a Sentinel when the 289th Military Police Company was attached to the Old Guard. The MP branch is a combat support unit and includes females.
In 1996, SGT Heather Johnson became the first female to earn the Tomb Guard Identification Badge. She volunteered for duty in June 1995 and earned her badge in 1996. However, SGT Johnson was not the only female Sentinel. Since then, there have been two additional female Sentinels awarded the Tomb Guard Identification Badge. SGT Danyell Wilson earned her badge in 1997, and SSG Tonya Bell received hers in 1998.
Several other units have since been attached to the Old Guard -- food service, transportation, medics, etc. -- so now females have an ever greater opportunity to become a Sentinel. Females must meet the same requirements as the male soldiers to be eligible to volunteer at the Tomb. the only difference is that females have a minimum height of 5'8" -- which is the same standard to be a member of the Old Guard.


Is the rifle that the Sentinel carries loaded?


Tomb Guards carry fully functional M14 rifles. Given the current climate surrounding the relatively recent tragic events in Canada (attack upon the guard at the Canadian War Memorial), we will no longer be answering questions relating to specifics regarding current security and armament at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. We appreciate your understanding.
Rest assured, that the US Army has the post secured as it has been since we started guard duty at the shrine in 1926.


What is the process to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?


Wreath laying ceremonies are conducted thousands of times each year by many organizations. If you are going soon, there is likely no availability for conducting this ceremony as the slots fill up at least six months in advance. Please visit arlingtoncemetery.mil for more detailed information and to request that honor if you are part of an organization planning a visit.
Wreaths are provided or arranged to be delivered by the public. All questions you may have about that ceremony can be answered on the ANC website or through the cemetery staff.

[cop414]

Thank you for that info Marc, excellent.

[77T]

Thanks for sharing. In many visits over the last 5 decades, I've never seen the sentinel remind the viewers to show a level of respect. It is a prime objective in addition to guarding the tomb itself.

I applaud his immediate reaction to the bozo's who were disrespectful.

As for the thumbsdowns - I'm guessing unknowing people who don't understand the use of a command voice by the sentinel. Or maybe the poor skills of the videographer - or just don't like the military in general...

We have now raised almost 2 generations who have no clue of the sacrifice made by so many before them. Sad, sad situation.


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[Widows Son]

The dummies watching should take off their hats too!! Don't treat the visit like you're at a baseball game. I can remember visiting the Arizona Memorial a few years ago. People acted like they were at a picnic. Hey stupid, you're standing on top of one giant grave site, show some respect!!!

[Pix]

Respect!

[Headshrinker]

Last year my older daughter won a contest in NJ based on a written paper discussing visitor's rights and protocols while at the Tomb of The Unknown Soldier. She was awarded with the honor of laying a wreath at the Tomb. It was one of the proudest moments of my life.

[BBL]

Originally Posted by cop414

That was excellent!
Very disheartening in reference to the disrespect but great as to how it was handed.

Originally Posted by Headshrinker

Last year my older daughter won a contest in NJ based on a written paper discussing visitor's rights and protocols while at the Tomb of The Unknown Soldier. She was awarded with the honor of laying a wreath at the Tomb. It was one of the proudest moments of my life.

Awesome! Speaks to her parents as well...

[cop414]

Originally Posted by Headshrinker

Last year my older daughter won a contest in NJ based on a written paper discussing visitor's rights and protocols while at the Tomb of The Unknown Soldier. She was awarded with the honor of laying a wreath at the Tomb. It was one of the proudest moments of my life.

Wow, you had to have been bursting at the seams with pride!

[Angrypuppy]

I tend to get a little teary eyed during the national anthem (every time) and watching videos like the OP posted.

Remember as those of you in the northeast are digging out your driveways this weekend there will be soldiers standing watch at the Tomb. Even during huricane Snady they stayed on duty.

http://youtu.be/MaiDIeYlgTM

Nothing but respect.

[THC]

Marc, that post was simply awesome... It must have taken an hour so thanks for the diligence there

[mjclark32]

A must see whenever in DC. Gives me goosebumps each time.

[dddrees]

I was fortunate enough to see this in person about five years ago. As a retired military member and as a person lucky enough to be a citizen of this country all I know is it meant a lot to me. Thanks for posting.

[cedargrove]

I saw a very good documentary on these guys, and have since watched numerous videos of them on YouTube.,Very impressive. I always get a little teary eyed. Very important to honour your fallen soldiers.

As for the dislikes, they exist on every video. I also watch videos of Canada's war dead returning home along our Highway of Heroes, and there are always some d-bags putting thumbs down.

[dddrees]

Originally Posted by cedargrove

I saw a very good documentary on these guys, and have since watched numerous videos of them on YouTube.,Very impressive. I always get a little teary eyed. Very important to honour your fallen soldiers.

As for the dislikes, they exist on every video. I also watch videos of Canada's war dead returning home along our Highway of Heroes, and there are always some d-bags putting thumbs down.

Amazing, cause a soldier only goes were our civilian leaders decide to send them. The soldier serves the country and its people at least in a democracy anyway.

[southtexas]

Thank you wantonebad; incredibly interesting.


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[HL65]

What a great thread thanks Rashid for posting and Marc for your post!

[mapalfa]

I'm not ex-US military, I'm not even American, but I am ex-forces and this sort of thing never ceases to disgust me.

How they manage to keep their cool under these circumstances is beyond me, I'd want to bayonet them!

We've had a few incidents here where tourists have gone too far with the Guardsmen on duty at various palaces. There's always some idiot trying to wind them up, forgetting that most are combat veterans these days. To do the same at a war memorial, any war memorial, shows such utter contempt for the sacrifices made that it makes me sick.

I've not been to Arlington but would like to - I think? I've visited the Normandy cemeteries a number of times, but I always have some feeling that I'm treating them like a tourist attraction when they should be for those with a more direct connection. I guess if I was near I'd visit one of the concentration camp sites, but again as much as I'd want to go to pay my respects, I know I'd probably feel like a voyeur when I was there. I've had the same feeling when diving on wrecks where there's been loss of life, as much as you feel the respect, by being there you can't help but disturb the place.

At the same time I do wonder if the war graves should be more of a picnic site type attraction. Would those who made the ultimate sacrifice want to be remembered in silent contemplation, or would they want people to enjoy the freedom and peace that they paid for with their lives.

I guess lots of that's down to your view of death. My wife comes from a traditional Portuguese family and the British habit of walking our dogs through cemeteries has taken years for her to become comfortable with. All her relatives are in huge stone memorials, but I want to be buried in a cardboard coffin with a fruit tree over me so people can benefit from me when I've gone.

When I joined the forces (post-Falklands, pre Gulf I) I told my parents that I would hate it if they made a fuss if I got killed on duty. As it turned out I had a very short enlistment due to a training injury, but had I been deployed I'd want to know that my place of rest was somewhere people could enjoy rather than feel silenced by.

That doesn't mean that I think there should be disrespect shown at The Tomb, that's not how it's been treated traditionally and that tradition should be respected, it's just how I'd feel about myself.