Fr those who don’t know, the post to guard the tomb of the unknown soldier isn’t easy, nor is it easy to get. Guards of the tomb are never off duty. They are not permitted to drink or smoke during the time they are assigned as guards. If I remember correctly the average post is 12-18months.
During the hurricanes in ‘04, they were due to be in the pathway and were offered to evacuate until the weather was safer. The guards remained, refusing to abandon their post.
These soldiers are unique and I have deeply respected them since the first time I saw and understood what they guard. They guard bodies of unknown soldiers, yes. But they guard the memory and honor of every soldier that has gone missing or unidentified. They carry that with them everyday, and they respect every aspect of what that means. 🫶🏼🇺🇸
In Case You Didn't Know.
While on post, a Sentinel from the U.S. Army's 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) exercises absolute post authority over the plaza at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, meaning their orders must be obeyed by all personnel regardless of civilian status or military rank.
Humble yourself. Not to the Guard, but to the locale. The meaning. The tomb. OUR Warriors who lay resting.
It is a solemn place. A place of respect. A place to focus. A place to assess.
No Rank Insignia on the mat: Sentinels wear blank uniforms without rank insignia while walking the mat. This intentional choice symbolizes that they do not outrank the unknown service members resting below, and it clarifies that their authority derives directly from the sacred nature of the post rather than personal rank.