Today, all across America people will fly Old Glory, wear red, white and blue, attend parades, listen to patriotic music, watch fireworks and gather to enjoy meals of hot dogs, hamburgers, fried chicken, barbeque, potato salad, watermelon, ice crams and apple pie. And while we are enjoying all that, a few young men will be continuously guarding a group of those, albeit unknown, who paid the ultimate price and made it possible for us to celebrate our independence. Elite members of the Platoon Guard Patrol of the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment patrol the Tomb of the Unknown. The Old Guard is the face of the Army and represent all Soldiers in ceremonies in the National Capitol Region and throughout the nation and is the official Escort to the President of the United States.
How did the Tomb of the Unknown come to be? In 1921, Congress approved a resolution providing for the burial of an unidentified American soldier, following the custom adopted by other allied countries after World War I. The site was to be the plaza of Arlington National Cemetery’s Memorial Amphitheater, which had been dedicated the previous year. On Memorial Day, 1921, an unknown was exhumed from each of four cemeteries in France. The remains were placed in identical caskets and assembled at Chalon sur Marne. The Unknown was selected by a highly decorated U.S. soldier when he placed a wreath of white roses on one of the caskets. Unknowns from World War II, Korea and Vietnam were selected in a like manner.
The monument which rests on top of the Unknown grave is a simple sarcophagus but impressive in its dimensions. Sculpted into the panel which faces Washington are the three figures of Valor, Victory, and Peace. On the plaza face the words “Here Rests in Honored Glory An American Soldier Known But To God”.
A soldier seeking the honor of serving as a sentinel at the Tomb must possess exemplary qualities, to include American citizenship, a spotless record, and impeccable military bearing. Tomb Guards take their duties very seriously. They train rigorously, memorize the names of all military heroes buried in Arlington, dress in front of a full length mirror and must pass inspection. While on duty the sentinel crosses a 63-foot rubber surfaced walkway in exactly 21 steps. He then faces the Tomb for 21 seconds, turns again, and pauses an additional 21 seconds before retracing his steps. The 21 is symbolic of the highest salute accorded to dignitaries in military and state ceremonies. As a gesture against intrusion on their post, the sentinel always bears his weapon away from the Tomb. Only under exceptional circumstances may the guard speak or alter his silent, measured tour of duty. He will issue a warning if anyone attempts to enter the restricted area around the Tomb, but first will halt and bring his rifle to port arms. The Guard wears the Army Dress Blue Uniform, reminiscent of the color and style worn by soldiers during the late 1800’s. Tomb Guards are privileged to wear the Tomb Identification Badge on the right breast pocket. The design is an inverted open laurel wreath surrounding a representation of the front elevation of the Tomb. The words “Honor Guard” are engraved at the base of the badge. The Guards serve during extreme weather conditions, even hurricanes.
Just a different perspective to keep in mind as we are free to enjoy our Independence Day!
– Lorre Lei
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