Ex-Honor Guard Brought to Tears by Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Ethan Morse, who grew up on a farm in Potsdam, New York, had never seen the Tomb of the Unknown Solider before a friend invited him on a day trip to Arlington National Cemetery. That afternoon left a deep impression on him, and when he enlisted in the Army in the wake of 9/11, Morse knew he wanted to serve as a tomb guard. After training for one year, he was selected for sentry duty at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. To hear the rest of Morse's story, please visit / aarp and watch “The Mistake That Haunts This Guard of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier” from the AARP original series "Reporting for Duty".
For inspiring veterans’ stories and helpful tips, subscribe to AARP’s Veteran Report at aarp.org/vetre....
#unknownsoldier #arlington #veteransday #veteran #army #emotional #memorialday
- - - - - -
AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to helping people ages 50 and older to improve their quality of life as they age. With over 38 million members and growing, we lead positive social change through our extensive product offerings and services.

[@s.wilson6770]

Someone who is so moved, is EXACTLY the soldier we want standing guard. Bless you.❤

[@jessicacabrera961]

Absolutely. Thank you for your service. ❤

[@AffectionateDna-lq6fr]

Robert E. Lee over looks Arlington from Heaven and so does George Washington.

[@squideye1144]

This place is the ultimate place of respect and honor for all military.

[@cathyb46]

The UK has one, state funeral then interred in Westminster Abbey on 20 11 1920 same date a French unknown soldier interred at the arc de Triomphe these were the first ones. 20 November is our Rememberance day at the Cenotaph in London. On top of the Cenotaph there is a stone empty tomb representing all those unknown soldiers where ever they came from.

[@Godiswatching45]

LORD, PROTECT OUR MEN & WOMEN, THERE IS OVERWHELMING UNNECESSARY DEATH.😢😢😢🎉🎉🎉❤❤❤

[@roystendcunha9943]

Honour for all...❤😊

[@jst2708]

Remember, freedom isn't free . Thanks to all who serve

[@diane5196]

My father's side of the family is from Arlington/DC. My father was born at GW hospital. My Grandmother flew me out there for a visit, when we went To ANC and saw the Tomb of the Unknown soldier, I cried like a baby. The 3rd Inf Reg (Old Guard) are AMAZING to watch!!! We owe our fallen soldiers and Vets nothing but our highest respect!

[@CsuarezFla]

When I was in basic training in the Army, my drill sergeant said " freedom is not free. It's been paid for in blood."

[@MelvinMartin-w1e]

@@CsuarezFla Now we need to ask the question why?

[@Ryan-li8qc]

Every citizen should remember that too,soldiers can't be the only ones that fight for it, everyone must or it will disappear.

[@RD-dn4vs]

🥲 WELL SAID! WHAT A KODAK MOMENT! 🦅🇺🇸🗽

[@travis_2234]

Thank You Veterans for Serving and Protecting our Country.

[@Chet73]

You’re welcome.

[@chadofchads7222]

I visited Normandy, it's undescribable. There's no end to the graves.

[@d1watt]

so sad man can you imagine Russian graves

[@chadofchads7222]

@@d1watt 20 meters deep, filled with civillians

[@Noah_-lp8kt]

Same here. So many white crosses

[@SHADOW-nj3kv]

​@@chadofchads7222ayyoooooo

[@ThisisKyle]

​@@chadofchads7222Good God damn dude 🤣 🤣 🤣 🤣 🤣

[@linlouwho123]

I drive by Arlington National Cemetery every day. I’ve been to several funerals there. It is unbelievably moving. These are the heroes.

[@tonmikecarn]

That is a high honor to be a guard of such

[@garyowen9044]

There are fewer holders of Guard, Tomb of The Unknown Soldier Identification Badges than Medal of Honor recipients.

[@averageglockenjoyer]

@@garyowen9044and there are only 4 who have done both

[@BuffSoldier-k5j]

​​@@garyowen9044 there are less holders of the tomb id badge then there are people in the navy who have gotten medals of honor, and the navy have had only 60 or so medals of honor given, and every one of those were given with a purple heart too, there are a total of 5 people every 10 years that are accepted into the tomb guard position Edit: that's 1 person every two years, but 300 of them sign up every year, so out of 600 people, 1 makes it to the tomb

[@_cloudface_]

​@@BuffSoldier-k5j what? There's 746 Navy MOH recipients but comparing a badge to a medal is like comparing an apple to a banana. "The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Guard Identification Badge is the third least-awarded qualification badge of the United States Army; as of December 26, 2023, they number 868, including 26 which have been revoked and 9 "administrative errors". It is preceded by the 103 Military Horseman Identification Badges and the 17 Astronaut Badges."

[@_cloudface_]

​@@garyowen9044 There's fewer Coast Guard's they've received an MOH than Space Force Cyberspace Operator Badge recipients too but it's a trivial comparison. There's so few because the physical requirements are narrow, the rules are fairly strict and it's not exactly usual soldiery to spend five hours a day preparing your uniform and memorising 175 notable dead people's names. Just about anyone can push themselves and face challenges to the point of being awarded an MOH for their service but giving up speaking to anyone for six months and alcohol and swearing for the rest of your life is a lot different kind of thing. Just in case this is useful: "For a person to apply for guard duty at the tomb, he must be between 5' 10" and 6' 2" tall and his waist size cannot exceed 30." Other requirements of the Guard: They must commit 2 years of life 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. They cannot swear in public for the rest of their lives and cannot disgrace the uniform {fighting} or the tomb in any way. After two years, the guard is given a wreath pin that is worn on their lapel signifying they served as guard of the tomb. There are only 400 presently worn. The guard must obey these rules for the rest of their lives or give up the wreath pin. The shoes are specially made with very thick soles to keep the heat and cold from their feet. There are metal heel plates that extend to the top of the shoe in order to make the loud click as they come to a halt. There are no wrinkles, folds or lint on the uniform. Guards dress for duty in front of a full-length mirror. The first six months of duty a guard cannot talk to anyone, nor watch TV. All off duty time is spent studying the 175 notable people laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery. A guard must memorize who they are and where they are interred."

[@sharonloomis5264]

Thank you to my government for honoring those who are unable to be identified. Thank you

[@ccrow9147]

Thank you, Sir, for your very special Service.

[@dovah69_5]

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a humbling and beautiful place! The "Old Guard" that serve there are the absolute best!!

[@ChrisOswald-rx2or]

I thank all who have served And especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Thank you for keeping my family safe and “free”

[@courtneywillingham4409]

I'm just saying there is never an ex-solider of any kind. Once, a soldier is always a soldier. Amen and God Bless.🎗

[@karonclark5996]

Amen Amen Amen

[@julietteyork6293]

Agree, it brings me to tears as well. Thank you for your service, sir. God bless you and God bless America 🇺🇸

[@markmaus7239]

I was in Arlingten in 2023. Thanks American Soldiers. Greets from Germany

[@milliegirl7514]

Greeting from a German living near Gettysburg

[@Adam-cp1dl]

One of the highest honors anyone can ask for.

[@ryu447]

Right.... cause the medal of honor winners are dorks?

[@liscel3556]

Highest honor thank you so much

[@samwesley2293]

@@ryu447are you ok he said one of not the highest learn to read you dork

[@HopeMatles]

That ceremony is so moving. Every American should see it.

[@RobCCTV]

And European too. (I'm a Brit)

[@haroldthibedeau515]

God bless you my brothers for keeping our fallen REMEMBERED. I tear always when I watch the overwhelming respect shown to this. What a sense of brotherhood and love

[@Danny-wu8ex]

Kind Sir. May I ask a question? Is the unknown solider buried identifiable ? Or has bed

[@TimConnelly-im3kj]

Every American should visit at least once in their lifetime.

[@keithphillips-xm6gk]

It is amazing, we were there for an hour and half. And I don't like when people decide they can get closer, go around the back of the tomb. The guards will draw there weapon pointing it at the person and YELL.

[@jayusa879]

Arlington Cemetery is a very special place. It will humble you to the core.

[@DonB.-Mulefivefive]

350,000 plus and counting.

[@michaelpurser2848]

I have toured two military cemeteries in the States, including Arlington. My dad, all 5 uncles and several cousins have served in the United States military. Two have died in combat, leaving behind wives and children. Our military, past and present, deserve our respect and gratitude.

[@veramae4098]

Recently found out there were 8,000 allied causalities on the first day of D-Day. I'm still stunned. Videos show soldiers taking 1 or 2 steps off the landing boats, then being killed.

[@DonB.-Mulefivefive]

@@veramae4098 Your figures are off alot. Might try researching that a bit more. 29K on one day alone.

[@WoundedWarrior2012]

That's where many of us in the Pentagon on 9/11 had to run because we were injured! Some died there on 9/11, too.😢

[@mikeizzano172]

Those who serve in that unit are a credit to the uniform ,the ARMY , and to America !

[@Cumberland_swasige]

Grow up.

[@KathleenFinlayson-bt4pr]

Thank you for your service and support...it has always moved me...tea

[@KathleenFinlayson-bt4pr]

Te

[@KathleenFinlayson-bt4pr]

Tears as always moved me in this olace❤❤

[@babytoysandstopmotion9767]

HOOAH!!!

[@barryrahn5957]

What an honor. It is hallowed ground - the same as standing at Little Round Top at Gettysburg, or when standing atop the trenches at Vicksburg looking down at the battlegrounds. Go in peace brother you've done well.

[@GrandmasBookBox]

Yes it is.

[@milliegirl7514]

How beautifully put in your post💕 Always pray at the Gettysburg memorial and now in this time of challenges ask them for their spiritual strength once again to unite us as we should be 💙💙💙

[@solarflarestudios719]

My grandfather was a tomb gaurd, it is definitely a sense of pride 😊

[@kellyward7090]

An amazing place, people and tradition. Makes me proud. God bless America

[@jenh9361]

@kellyward7090 Yes... It makes me proud to be an American, too. God Bless America 🇺🇸

[@philgiglio7922]

Other countries followed our lead on a tomb for the unknowns

[@imwelshjesus]

@@philgiglio7922 BOLLOXXS, more All American ignorance. The UK's Tomb of the Unknown Warrior is located in the Chapel of the Holy, Westminster Abbey, London. The tomb contains the remains of an unidentified British soldier from World War I who was buried on November 11, 1920, Armistice Day. Learn or STFU.

[@robwarrilow4810]

Lives given for us all . The bravest of the brave never to be forgotten.

[@chipper841]

Thank you for your service of sacred devotion to OUR unnamed soldiers. Bless you.

[@vatatheoanonymous3705]

Mad respect for anyone who chooses to offer their life for their country.

[@joycestempa5647]

Having been born in DC and raised in the Metro Area my entire life means I’ve seen every museum, monument, been to almost every surrounding military base, been at the Pentagon (especially after 9/11) and done the whole White House tours thing and even briefly at Camp David (work related before a summit) and I attended just about every holiday event imaginable, 4th of July under the Washington Monument, 4th of July on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, Spring Cherry Blossom Festival, Marine Corp Marathon, White House Christmas Tree lighting ceremony, public concerts on the National Mall, grand opening at the MLK, WWII & The Wall (Vietnam) Memorial, Protest Rallies of every imaginable kind, AIDS Quilt, Presidential Election Parades, Election Balls & political party dinners, Civil War battle fields, Colonial Williamsburg, Historic (colonial) Old Town, Mt. Vernon (George Washington’s house), etc. I’ve seen it ALL, dozens of times over 60+ years……and I can personally confirm that without a doubt, Arlington Cemetery and specifically the Tomb of the Unknown is the most emotional & patriot place I’ve ever seen and it fills me with immense pride every single time I’m there……and even more so when you understand that the Guards of this Tomb are on duty (walking back & forth in a small area, outside) in ALL weather (tornado force winds, rain, snow, bitter cold and blazing 100+ degree heat), 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK!!!!

[@BD-11B_OIF-1]

Yes, you're (of course) correct about that. Also, I don't know if a lot of our Citizenry realizes this. There are other military positions, that require constantly positioned guards, on duty. Yet, with some of the specific, most extreme weather conditions - they will, either remove those service members, or move them indoors. However, with the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, those Honor Guards, there, won't EVER yield their responsibility - EVER, regardless of any & all circumstances... not only the absolutely horrid weather conditions, but including things such as the morning of Sept. 11th, 2001.

[@jenh9361]

Amen... God Bless America 🇺🇸

[@karlrovey]

​@@BD-11B_OIF-1There have been a few times where permission has been granted to yield their responsibility due to extremely dangerous conditions and the guards have refused to do so.

[@DannaK247]

And they apply to be able to have the position.

[@happycamper137]

Utmost respect for the men giving they're respect for the "unknown" soldiers who deserve that respect. That my friends is HONOR!!!!

[@teresaloss1012]

THOUSANDS AND THOUSANDS of People died and are still dying because of war. May you All R.I.P.❤ And too those are SERVING , THANK YOU FOR THE FREEDOM YOU HAVE GIVEN TO US .🇺🇸 🙏

[@GrandmasBookBox]

Arlington and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a very special place. Every American should visit more than once,

[@modelcitizen72]

It took a moment to take in that I was standing next to Thurgood Marshall.

[@janethompson2305]

We have been to The Tomb Of The Unknown Soldier & we want to go back again. U WILL have goosebumps all over U the whole time U are standing there ❤😪🙏🤲 God bless our Military past & present🕊🙌🙌🙌✝️😇

[@barb7014]

Visiting this Sacred Ground was an incredibly emotional honor for me. Just remembering it now has me crying.

[@2ndhandSue]

I'm Canadian and will probably never get to see it in person, but from the time I first learned of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in high school social studies class many decades ago, I have felt like it must be the most sacred place on earth. The reverence, respect and honor that is accorded to the Tomb by the Honor Guard is a ceremony I will never ever forget. The man who lies inside should remind us every single hour of our lives what it is to love your country and its freedoms - those things we would never have if it wasn't for the sacrifices made by countless people.

[@GrandmasBookBox]

@@2ndhandSue It is worth every effort to go. Arlington is hallowed ground.

[@mynamedoesntmatter8652]

Thanks to all who have served and are serving. God bless America 🇺🇸 And VOTE!

[@bobbycv64]

I have visited TUS. The Guards show Respect, Honor and Professionalism. People ask for Role Models, "Well here are a Few". BTW, I lived in Southeast VA and during Hurricane Isabel 2003, the Guard was allowed to leave the Tomb. The Guards REFUSED and carried on. I Salute You, Bobby Estey USN (Bravo Zulu).

[@thebackroomstockboy7336]

To be honest, I’m not surprised. It’s a sacred honor to guard that tomb and they take that duty EXTREMELY seriously. I hope to witness the changing of the guard in person someday. It’s humbling even on video, but I can only imagine the emotions seeing it in person.

[@bobbycv64]

@@thebackroomstockboy7336 thank you for the response. Yes, this is sacred ground also for the many who have given their all for the USA.

[@edschmid123]

I was living just south of Richmond back then, I remember that, too.

[@bobbycv64]

​@@edschmid123 I was devastated during Hurricane Isabel, didn't have power for 12 days, lost my home and took 2 years to replace. Address 3180 Horse Road, Hayes, VA 23072 (Gloucester County) - was a trailer home and build a bomb shelter, REALLY. Check it out.

[@givehimtheglory7]

Thank you for your service 🇺🇸 And stay humble, God bless you 🙏

[@annsowers4591]

My uncle was a "Tomb Guard" in the 60's. Back then you had to be of a certain height and body build. He was honored to be selected as you did not apply, but were ordered.

[@WBTB_MySadShrubs]

Pretty sure they never ordered anyone to do so, they choose and ask if they would like the honor of guarding the tomb... And you have to be absolutely perfect because the tiniest smudge of dirt on your rifle or the crease in your pants isnt perfectly symmetrical, you'd lose the position

[@brokenwrench404]

@@WBTB_MySadShrubs exactly! It’s an honor to guard the tomb not a duty that was ordered

[@TwitterFingers873]

My grandfather was offered this position and turned it down

[@openfiretactical]

Thank you for your most honorable service.

[@markhottman2652]

T O G 🇺🇸 My Daddy is down the Hill in Section 63

[@larrycarter3285]

Ty 4 his Service. Semper Fi

[@Danny-wu8ex]

Iv not had the privilege of seeing such a historical place. I shall seek out your father’s resting place. My very first time there. A promise to you.

[@DanDongsi-ud4fu]

Thank you for your sacrifices. So we can live in freedom!🇺🇸🙏😎

[@katydidiy]

Thank you for your service in honoring our fallen.

[@robertroberto2487]

This Soldier Honored All Soldiers With Integrity, Honor, Of Deep Respect.Watching The Guard Changes Overcome With Emotion.

[@dehavensolimonchaffins8653]

Sincere Gratitude & Heartfelt Prayers to all military personnel who are laid to rest at Arlington. Thank you for guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. ❤️😔😭🙏🏼🇺🇸 Thank you for your service....

[@jenh9361]

@dehavensolimonchaffins8653 Absolutely, your service and sacrifice are greatly appreciated... God Bless America 🇺🇸

[@silencedogood7297]

So why won't the Army charge Trump for being disrespectful in grinning thumbs-up and filming an illegal ad in OUR sacred cemetery ? I honor our vets. I cried in our Arlington National Cemetery. MY DAD died for USA.

[@debrawilliamson8133]

Honor & Respect To This SOLIDER 💯🙏🏻💯

[@yvetterobbins7752]

Thank you to my Pops and ao many family members including my baby Sister. Who have served our country selflessly.

[@katielou700]

You have so much to be proud of and your ‘thank you’ shows it! God bless you and your family❣️🇺🇸🙏🏻

[@hestergreen2031]

God Bless our unknown soldiers, who lie in the Tomb of the Unknown. May he Rest In Eternal Peace knowing he is truly loved by his countrymen and family..

[@ceciliacasey8039]

There is an unknown from WW I, WW II, Korea, and finally they approved an unknown from the Vietnam War... *Known only to God*

[@ChibiPanda8888]

And all those on foreign soils.

[@janicepeace5243]

Amen!!❤❤❤🙏🙏🙏

[@jamesharbin9074]

This is one of the hardest units to qualify for & to serve in ! These guys are ELITE ! Thank you from an old sgt from the dirt ! 😊 you PROTECT & HONOR MY BUDDIES GRAVES ! THANK YOU BROTHERS.........

[@mr.robinson1982]

The *"Garden of Stone"* always brings me to tears. The sacrifice of so many to ensure the freedom of millions is emotional experience.

[@saigejones3363]

So. Why are some military soldiers voting for Trump? Also, some police? A man who NEVER SERVED a day in either.😭

[@rachelh5467]

There is something about Arlington that leaves you in peace and sadness! As a Canadian standing infront of fallen allies I was highly emotional and I leaned into my dad saying if I’m this emotional infront of my allies, what am I gonna be like when I am infront of my own❤❤❤

[@sharonporter7132]

Respect to all military allies who fight for freedom. I am praying that we don't have to lose any more of our men and women and I pray you never have that experience. God bless you and your family and all of us.🙏🙏🇺🇲🇨🇦

[@downhomesunset]

Another Canadian here. I thank anyone who serves because, for the most part, they have seen some gut wrenching things that some of us cannot comprehend. They all deserve respect and recognition!

[@Sky-sm2jz]

While in US NAVY, I served with a woman Marine who was Canadian! She was an outstanding Marine and a beautiful soul. I will always remember you Chris L. ❤🇨🇦 ❤

[@ForeverEngland76]

The Unknown Warrior at Westminster Abbey could be a Canadian 🇨🇦🇬🇧🇺🇸

[@RoseBrinkmann8848]

I have family buried at Arlington close to the Tomb. I often stand at my father's grave and listen to the Tomb Guards perform their duty. It is truly Hallowed Ground. The Tomb Guards deserved the highest respect for their dedication to their duty. Thank you for your Service, One and All.

[@SuzetteWallace-gj5pm]

I was moved & humbled seeing Arlington & the change of Guard ceremony 😢. God bless the 🇺🇸

[@KayWhite1]

Yes! Humbled! More of what this generation needs!

[@FERNANDOGONZALEZ-pb6re]

A place so sacred,it's only fitting that there is no excuse for mischief. Thanks to all who served and continue to serve. MAKE WAR NO MORE.

[@narcisorodriguez32]

All day some some gave it all God bless them you will never be forgotten.

[@LindaWhary]

Thank you for your service to our country! God bless you and your family. My mother, father and brother all served in the military (WW11 and Vietnam war). As a grateful citizen, I honor your commitment. You have my respect and support 🇺🇸

[@Badman-fc9vf]

There is uniqueness in US military.

[@MariaMorris-u1p]

Thank you for your service sir God bless you 🙏❤️ God bless America 🇺🇸

[@kathyconley8920]

At the age of 11 we left Ohio and moved to Alexandria, Virginia. We had been to Arlington cemetery a number of times on vacation as a little girl. I was always from the age of seven to now at age 70, awed by the men who guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier! Thank you to these men, and now women who guard this with their life! As a former Army medic, you all make me so proud that I was in the Army. My family has been military since the Revolutionary War. My ninth great grandfather served with George Washington. Thank you to all the men and women who serve in our armed forces no matter which branch and for your commitment and love of country! I think next year 2025 I will take my granddaughter to Washington DC on our annual vacation this next year and I think she will be awestruck!🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@ChibiPanda8888]

That's so cool you could trace your history back and know that about your 9th great grandfather. Thank you for your service.

[@katielou700]

Thank you for sharing your family’s love and patriotism, especially with your special little girl who’s eleventh great grandfather served for our freedom❤

[@captbart3185]

Medically retired out of RVN. Thank you for your loyal and respectful service soldier.

[@Sun-hh9vo]

❤ Amazing Guards Services ❕🕊️🌹🇺🇲 Thank you ❗

[@shielanunn3484]

my deceased husband served on the Honor Guard at Arlington early in his military Career..Always had such Pride in that assignment

[@jenniferjoaquin4717]

His pure love and honor for his fellow soldiers and country are heart-wrenchingly beautiful 🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻

[@patriciahamann1332]

Freedom comes at a high price..thank you to everyone that have served and sacrificed 😢❤God bless all of our veterans 🙏

[@bridgettecoffey1083]

What’s truly amazing about the guards of the Unknown Soldier is when you get to see it late in the afternoon when the cemetery is closing down. I witnessed it once where they never even speak during the changing of the guard. The men just know what to do and are perfectly in sync. They give the commands when many people are watching but they don’t need to give any commands because these men know exactly what’s expected of them.

[@earlputnal9124]

It brought sincere tears to my eyes when I served and visited the tomb. But I made sure I saluted a fellow military brother in arms. 😓😓😓

[@austenmullennix6378]

I've actually seen the changing of the guard in person when I was a child it is pretty cool to see it.

[@alwaysflushinpublic]

Thank you and your family for your selfless service. May the future generations never fail or falter to defend this great land against all enemies foreign and domestic.

[@anonymousm5362]

My parents are buried in Arlington!

[@timethious54]

I appreciate their service and sacrifice 🙏

[@pareemattox2878]

it should never be disrespected, it deserves honor and respect at all times

[@CsuarezFla]

I'am a veteran of the U.S. Army and it saddens and tears my soul apart to see what this country is becoming and all those brave warriors who died for it. They are the true heros, my heros and the heros of freedom and the true United States Of America. 🇺🇸

[@GraceBayan-bn8cb]

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE. THE LORD RICHLY BLESS YOU SWEETIE.

[@imwelshjesus]

@@GraceBayan-bn8cb Oh grow up, no wonder 💩s can become POTUS

[@Richard-xc3jd]

People are good. America is an idea . An example of what can be. You, Sir, and so many in all walks of life will stand as Valor lights our land . Thank you.

[@firefighteremt66716]

I work with a man who was stationed there. They are a different breed of person.

[@debkrummreich3883]

I have been to the Tomb of Unknown Soldier , and Arlington Cemetery. There is a awe of undescribable peace ,and specialness. You can't describe visiting both places. When visiting the Tomb of Unown Soldier there where 4 military jets that flew over us. This trip was one Will never forget.

[@karonclark5996]

Absolutely magnificent

[@rogerscollier7424]

It’s an emotional moment. I’ve been and witnessed the changing of the guard.

[@carolmullins5085]

💚💙💚It was an HONOR to see the changing of the GUARD. I was only 12 but was moving. That was 60 yrs ago.💙9.23.24💚

[@emmanuellafontant5659]

Thanks for your service God bless and stay safe.

[@babytoysandstopmotion9767]

I served in the Army and I've never visited Arlington but I will before I die. RIH TO ALL WHO WE CONSIDER OUR HEROES. 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 And what the Tangerine Toddler did made me furious. He shouldn't have never been allowed to even stand outside the gates.

[@patriciasutherland923]

I understand his reaction--I, too, was overwhelmed at Arlington, and especially at the tomb of the unknown soldier... I get choked up when I think about all those men, and young men who gave it all for us...Respect to all soldiers

[@albertdevitt5307]

RIP

[@tariblevins955]

Just seeing video of Arlington is overwhelming. Beautiful, sobering. 🇺🇸💙🇺🇸💙🇺🇸💙🇺🇸💙🇺🇸

[@willcswild9415]

I learned about this awsome memorial, 6th grade , i had Great teachers in the 70s 80s,

[@DwainFontenot]

Thank You For Your Service!❤❤

[@Williameagleblanket]

A few soldiers I served in Afghanistan and Iraq with are buried in section 60. I visited them in 2006. 🇺🇸

[@mitchellwright5478]

Rest In Peace to your comrades, my cousin visits the Heston Cemetary near Boston every weekend for his friends he lost in double TOD

[@peepers46]

I’m so sorry for the loss of your friends. God bless. (Charlie, Army MP veteran)

[@ChibiPanda8888]

Thank you for your service.

[@ramonbranchcomb9528]

Served with 2 tomb guards PNOC 1983 Fort Knox KY. Awesome and funny guy's. RESPECT

[@otaku1524]

A most singular, unique, and solemn duty you were give. Thank you for your service and Dedication To Duty, Sir!

[@AngelaJames-jr2lo]

Crying so hard ❤. So beautiful and wonderful! Wife of a deceased SMSGT Airforce, MILITARY WIFE FOREVER,ANGIE ❤😂😊❤

[@briankenna5090]

My grandpa was buried at Arlington a few years back and my uncle was lost in ww2 when his plane went down. My brother’s now a Cavalry specialist. This place means more than I’ve realized most my life.

[@KellieHanincik]

Amazing! Soooooo beautiful, sad, & mesmerizing, all at the same time! GOD BLESS ALL OUR SOLDIERS, PAST, PRESENT, & FUTURE.❤️🤍💙🙏🇺🇸

[@jst2708]

I've been to the tome of the unknown soldier. It was the changing guard shifts. People are very respectful & if their not, the crowd would go after them.

[@edskipper1]

Now we have Trump desecrating area 60 and his entourage bullying Army Staff. God bless the memories of the Unknown Soldiers.

[@fireygreenert5635]

That's one place I'd love to go someday. Just to say... Thanks. Seems painful yet so beautiful and peaceful to be there.

[@garyowen9044]

It’s amazing. Right near the Tomb of The Unknowns, is a vast field of Unknowns. They are the Uncelebrated Unknowns. I often walk through there so they don’t feel left out.

[@fireygreenert5635]

@@garyowen9044 there obviously shouldn't be a single uncelebrated unknown so, I'm glad to know someone is spending time there. 😌

[@maryhauser6685]

These men make me proud of the US and what we as a Country should be thinking of....not sleepy joe and cackling Kamala....a beautiful,, emotional sight. Thank you all for your service. GOD BLESS YOU

[@leswehman11]

Sir, thank you for your dedicated service through standing Guard as a Sentry. Much respect 🫡

[@FredSmith-s5t]

My Uncle Richard is buried in Arlington. Silver Star Bronze Star Purple Heart. A true hero. He never talked about it. His story is lost.

[@nkk1731]

You should put all the information together and take it to a Veterans adm inistration in your nearby town to be recorded.

[@KonradRosgen]

I know what you mean. But the fact that he has found peace in this soil and his awards tell a story in themselves. Keep him in good mind.

[@jamesbreeden3061]

The initial story of how a service member fell is told most often by his or her comrades who saw it happen. They carry that experience for the rest of their lives. Sadly some fall and others don't see it or die beside them. It is most appropriate to share their story in a most respectful manner. They should never be forgotten.

[@martinconyard]

You say that the story of your Uncle (May he rest in perfect peace) is lost because he never spoke about his service but if the US Military is anything like ours, here in the UK, there may very well be a Regimental Historian who will have access to the archives and records of your Uncle’s citations for the Medals he was awarded. By approaching the Historical Records of his Regiment, if you know it, you will most probably be able to piece together the wider story of what was happening at the time of his actions that caused him to be so highly awarded. I hope I’ve not been too long winded with my comment, which I truly hope is of use to you and more importantly, I sincerely hope that you are able to find out what the Military has got recorded about your Uncle and then you can pass that knowledge, information and his story on to the other members of your family and, most importantly, the next generation of your family will have a solid link to the history of your Uncle and the big part he must have played in the history of the USA. 🇺🇸 God bless you, Sir and God bless your family and especially your late Uncle. Bye for now from across the pond 🇬🇧🙂👍🏼

[@trentonfrantzen8098]

Thank you so very much for your service fr god bless you to infinity and beyond till the end of times 🙂🤘🏻💚😎😊💙🙏🏻🌈🧿👍🏻♾️✝️💜🤙🏻😁1️⃣1️⃣1️⃣1️⃣☘️🇺🇲

[@eddiesimms9301]

The Tomb Of The UNKNOWN SOLDIER is something UNIQUE because it represents ALL of those who have fallen on the battlefield and were not able to be IDENTIFIED by their remains, therefore they become UNKNOWN......And for those who are SELECTED for such duty as this are considered the CHOSEN FEW. Each branch of the Armed Forces has something about itself that makes it UNIQUE from one another. However, sentry duty/guarding the Tomb Of The Unknown Soldier is STRICTLY the responsibility of the United States Army's 3rd Infantry Regiment know as "The Old Guard"..........The remains that lie therein the tomb may be unknown to man, but he IS KNOWN UNTO GOD who IS SOVEREIGN. AMEN

[@bigdee8189]

Well said Eddie! I'm very proud of the 3rd Infantry Regiment, and the professional job they do!! From a USAF Warthog pilot...HOOAH

[@MiguelMoreno-cr8db]

Amen

[@goodshipkaraboudjan]

It's not unique at all as it was copied directly from the UKs Tomb Of The Uknown Warrior which was interned the year before. No less significant but not unique.

[@larrycarter3285]

Semper Fi

[@mr.brenman2132]

​@@goodshipkaraboudjanTry again. There were examples of tombs like this before the one in the U.K. There was one created in France at the same time as the U.K. The presentation of the one in Arlington is unique. Nobody asked for your input btw. The fool actually said "copied" like it's a competition. 🤦‍♂️

[@sharkman5735]

My Drill Sgt, served 4 tours of Vietnam. He became a Drill Sgt after serving with the Old Guard. He was something else and the things that man taught us. basic stuff like the wear of the uniform. I was 17 and damn proud!!! SFC MOELLER!!!!!

[@jasonkelly1695]

I was luckily enough to see the first female guard of the tomb of the unknown soldier it was such a great honor. God bless all the shoulders.

[@rstaylorLYNCH47]

My dad served on the USS. Cone WW2 , He gave me instructions on the remains. He said son , place my ashes in-between his mother and father , I am honored that I did ad he requested. James S. Taylor USN., USAF. ( FOREVER FREE 🇺🇲 )

[@catherinedavy1022]

Respect Soldier 🇺🇸

[@milliegirl7514]

Never underestimate the power of Honor/Duty and Commitment. I have chills listening to his emotional visit at Arlington I get the same and prey whenever I make it to the Gettysburg memorial fields. Was born in Germany but the US has become my home 🙏💕🙏

[@alanknight4418]

Chokes me up every time I watch. Freedom comes at a great cost.

[@mommybear2]

Reminds me of that phrase..."freedom isn't free."

[@suzannenoel3078]

It is a special honor to guard the Tomb, it takes a special soldier to do it. My hat to you as a veteran

[@JanetKushnereit-yb7ck]

Thank you for service. We know freedom isnt free. I watched rhe changing of the guards, brought tears and didn't talk for awhile😢 Everyone should see this at least 1 time in their lives. It will be humbling to all who visit. You will remember this all your life.❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤