How do They Decide Who Gets to Guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?

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In this video:
Since 1937, the Tomb of the Unknowns has famously never once been left unattended with there always being at least one guard present to keep vigil. The highly coveted position of Tomb Sentinel is only meted out to truly exceptional soldiers, all of whom must prove their dedication and mettle through a series of grueling and somewhat unusual tests.
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[@miksyezpatelik]

im a retired British soldier, but this is a whole new level. The professionalism and dedication , not to mention the sheer attention to minute detail , is off the scale !!! I don't have the words to express my admiration to these soldiers ! Because there are no words to describe their effort in maintaining their country's commemoration of soldiers who gave their all. My salute to all you sentinels... a brigade of your dedication would conquer the world.! Even at my age I wish i could join you

[@susanisrael9779]

rob waldron awesome of you. Thank you brother.

[@stimactzedvard7556]

Those buckingham palace guards are not slouches either.

[@grizzle273463]

And I was thinking that those who received the VC were "elite".

[@BigMosh]

So no trying to be disrespectful or anything but what exactly is the purpose of these guys and the holy “show” they do.

[@miksyezpatelik]

@@BigMosh Do some research !! The guards are frontline soldiers, and are often in dangerous areas of the world, not just sitting behind a keyboard on a computer. Its not a 'holy show", its a duty that is performed with discipline and dedication, Something that, due to your crass remarks , you know nothing about.

[@samonellauniversity1182]

“So no one out ranks the unknown...” that’s deep.

[@susanisrael9779]

Sam O'Nella University that’s America, sunshine😉.

[@ethanweeter2732]

Out of respect for the unknown soldiers who identities and therefore, ranks, were never discovered.

[@theeslimstevie]

@@susanisrael9779 something you'd never understand or respect. Shows how bright you aren't.

[@TheBlackDeck]

21, 63, 666. Very interesting.

[@fester2306]

@@TheBlackDeck Not really.

[@blue24angels]

My tour guide of the cemetery said that he reason why they ask for nothing but Perfection is because it’s what those unknown soldiers deserve

[@mdhcccc]

Oh wow really that’s insane I can’t believe ur tour guide gave u that exclusive inside piece of information

[@nelzelpher2088]

@@mdhcccc it's not exclusive information. If you spend a little time just to think about it, you would have reaches that conclusion aswell.

[@simonrancourt7834]

Indeed.

[@MrSheckstr]

The tomb of the unknowns is a noble recognition of the military being unable to identify a fallen soldier and thus return their remains to the family or at the very least being able to definitively tell them where they fell. It’s a self imposed penance whose example was meant to inspire efforts to increase our ability to identify the remains. Recently one of the remains (either from the Vietnam or Korean era, I cannot remember) was positivity identified using DNA samples from hundreds of potential family members and those remains were extracted and finally properly buried. That is why the qualification standards for being a Guard are so exactingly high

[@miksyezpatelik]

@@nelzelpher2088 Ignore him Andrew, he can't spell dedication, let alone comprehend what his left wing mind understands.

[@pointly]

"Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God." ~Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Thank you for your service and sacrifice. Look over our nation and her people from above and protect her from those who wish to do us harm. Amen.

[@geesegoose6174]

Amen

[@tawhneebaby]

Hoorah!!!

[@susanisrael9779]

Crimson Tiger ❤️

[@70mjc]

Crimson Tiger look over everyone. If you only want your group to be looked after, you deserve, and have earned, nothing

[@slip8293]

@@70mjc Not everyone deserves such honor. You are one such individual.

[@rabaham]

The least we can do for the unknown soldiers is respect as embedded in the honor guards. God bless

[@antthegord9411]

Karen: WAIT I NEED TO GET THIS AWESOME ANGLE FOR A PICTURE LEMME CROSS THE LINES

[@SheyD78]

@@antthegord9411 This is the second time I've seen 'Karen' referenced in a comment on a video of the tomb. Is that someone specific or a generic reference I don't get? (curious who this Karen person is)

[@CondoreComputing]

@@SheyD78 It is a generic reference to any lady that has the "I demand to see your manager" and the entitled "the world belongs to me" type attitude

[@howardamey7228]

The Tomb of the Unknown as well as any cemetary is hallowed and sacred ground Reverence, and respect should always be adhered to.

[@theeslimstevie]

@@SheyD78 if you look up trespassing of unnamed tomb you'll understand. ( dumb people who cross the chains and fence and steps onto concrete. )

[@peterbanderas8184]

My father was a Tomb Guard shortly after the Kennedy assassination. He was transferred to the Firing party a month before he was eligible for the Tomb sentinel badges. He always regretted not earning it. A few years ago he returned to Arlington, and he and his freinds were given a personal tour by the Major in command. As they completed the tour my father mentioned that he regretted never earning his Tomb badges. The Major looked at him, reached up to his shoulder and pulled off his badges (they were velcroed on) and handed them to my dad. My dad was so shocked by the gesture he collapsed. To this day he keeps those badges next to his photos and his flag.

[@BT-ex7ko]

@Peter Banderas I'm so glad I dug through the comments and found your story! Truly a kind gesture.

[@addcafe]

What an incredible story and act. Chokes me up , more then a little. G-d bless

[@peterbanderas8184]

Thanks guys. Honestly his time in the Army was one of his proudest moments in his life. He doesn't talk about it much because his career ended in Vietnam after his helicopter was shot down. But when you can get him talking it is an interesting story. I like to think of the man as a Latino version of Forest Gump because he has stumbled in to luck on a regular basis his whole life. And his time as a member of the Honor Guard is no exception. He was not a US citizen at the time, Vietnam was in full swing and he joined shortly before the Kennedy assassination (he was at Arlington making sandwiches during the world famous funeral). He didn't even know what the Honor Guard was... He thought they wanted him to perform regular guard duty and he only said yes because the guys who did got to sleep in. It kept him from going to Vietnam for a while, he became a Helicopter pilot flying Dust-offs (Medi-vac helicopters) and met everyone from President Johnson to General Bradley. All in all, not bad for a street kid from Columbia...

[@peterbanderas8184]

YO JOE that's where you would be wrong. If I had photos of the badges and event ( They are 8 hours away and my dad is about as handy with tech as a dog is at flying a plane) , i would be happy to provde them. Admittedly I have not seen his badges in almost seven years, so I may be mistaken in my memory of what the badge said (I recall it saying tomb guard, but I am willing to concede my potential mistake). But these are identical to the ones given to my father. Please note the velcro. You may have been under the impression that I was talking about the dress uniform, but even as a civilian I know the velcro badges (note there are two) are not used on ceremonial dress. mobile.twitter.com/ItsStarmoon/status/659371011532550148/photo/1

[@peterbanderas8184]

YO JOE here is footage from the last funeral my dad was assigned too. He is the first man in the front left of the formation staring at 2:16 - 2:18. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bJyzap2Ye9hsrLM

[@bambinothegreat1896]

I was in the Old Guard, and it was the greatest experience I've had. Bravo 1/3, 3rd United States Infantry regiment.

[@andrewbrown5470]

Bambino The Great I am currently in Bravo company!

[@slip8293]

I give you my deepest respect sir. Thank you for everything. I hope I can be a better person to make up for all those who do not deserve to have men and women like you protecting us from those who wish to take away our way of life.

[@donnaskaggs1]

My dad at the age of 81 had the honor of representing the Korean War soldiers & presenting the wreath. I knew it an important event for him, but never understood how truly significant it was until your explanation. He’s 87 now & is starting to lose memories, but still speaks about it with tears in his eyes

[@JeremyWS]

The Old Guard is basically the U.S.A. equivalent of The Queens Guard in England with how ceremonial they are.

[@simonwest9450]

batmanfanforever08 Basically yes, though the Queens Guard is made up of several regiments (though there are slight differences in uniform)

[@RoyRogersMcFreely28]

He ‘Old Guard’ is the US Army’s 3rd Infantry Regiment. Their garrison duty includes mostly ceremonial posts, however they are a fully functioning light infantry regiment and have deployed tactically to Iraq and Afghanistan. I don’t know much about the queen’s guard-do they rotate through that post and are otherwise part of the functional Army units?

[@rambling964]

@Christopher Drummond from what I understand, functional army units (and reserve units) from throughout the commonwealth rotate into and out of the Queen's Guard - for instance, for the week of the 25th June, the Royal Canadian Air Force will alternate duties with the 1st Battalion Irish Guards and the 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards.

[@quentintin1]

yes, the queens guard are composed of a number of infantry regiments, and the troops rotate between active and ceremonial duties, and other troops of the commonwealth are sometimes tasked with the honor of protecting the queen

[@RoyRogersMcFreely28]

Rambling thanks so much for the clarification. I served with several men who spent time in the Old Guard. It’s still a coveted assignment.

[@IanCaine4728]

You did a great job on this video. Usually, when I click on these I expect lots of mistakes, but you nailed it. I was a member of the Old Guard (TOG) for four years. I did a TDY training at the TUS, but was never a sentinel. I feel so privileged to have walked the plaza at night, with pitch-dark ANC all around and the lights of Washington across the Potomac River. That, funerals, and Dover missions made it a very meaningful assignment.

[@erictaylor5462]

8:00 This is because the "theatrics" are not for the entertainment of tourists, they are to show respect to all those who have died in war, and whose name was lost.

[@Yutter89]

Poor choices of wording plague this video, starting with the thumbnail...

[@erictaylor5462]

What do you expect. He's English.

[@General12th]

> English > poor choice of words Wait, what? Is this some inside joke stereotype I don't know about?

[@erictaylor5462]

English the nationality, not the language. And yes, it's a joke. Simon makes good videos.

[@oisinm332]

How are rules that are so strict respectful.

[@DemocratsareagentsofSATAN]

Even as a 10 year Marine myself (Amtracker - 1833)...I have nothing but the utmost respect for the soldiers that perform this duty... I served on a funeral detail while stationed in Hawaii for a year and thought that was a tough job to get...but even the Marine Corps standards, which are astronomically high, dont compare to this specific MOS... Edit: another fact not mentioned here...the guards always carry their rifle on the shoulder closest to the crowd of people...as a show of respect of "protecting" the Unknowns. Semper Fi!!!

[@branon6565]

rwest1833_MGTOW ..... Hooah!!

[@eliduttman315]

Marine, thank you! I served in the U.S. Army for 3 years. There are never enough good people to go around, regardless of the specific uniform they wear. When push comes to shove, there's little difference between the blazing hell of the Central Pacific islands and the frozen hell of the Ardennes. The troops did, and continue to do, their duty.

[@rayhanley8354]

This job is now open to all MOS. Used to be only infantry.

[@BMoney8600]

Thank you for your service

[@madLphnt]

Ever shoot anyone?

[@carddealer34]

I was an MP at Ft. Myer (home of The Old Guard) between 92-94, I would stand gate duty at Henry Gate and I would watch these soldiers train to be Tomb Guards, and that was just training to be be allowed the chance to become a Tomb Guard, along with soldiers training for other ceremonial duties, and that is no joke. During all types of weather, these infantrymen would stand at attention and march around at Henry Gate. I have a lot of respect for them.

[@yankeewargamer3098]

We were there at the same time! I was in E Co. 3rd U.S. Inf., and later Recon Plt. Very cool!

[@davidpietarila699]

It’s a little ironic that the unknown soldier(s) is probably one of the best known soldier(s) in the world.

[@lainebrock18]

🥺🥺 I just teared up a little at that :’)

[@carlhicksjr8401]

The 'unmistakable, undefined qualities' are really simple for those of us who are veterans. We call it 'military bearing'. It's the ability to be unflappable in the performance of your duty, the ability to focus on the job at hand, and the outward and obvious appearance of you doing so. It is NOT 'being a robot' or a 'drone'. You can tell who has military bearing when you see a unit march, even those who do not have a ceremonial function. Do the privates respond well to orders and commands? Are the NCO's looking toward alignment and keeping their troops in hand? Is the formation leader [be it officer, NCO or enlisted man] clear with their orders, knowledgeable about when to give them, and aware of the surroundings of the formation as it goes down the street? This is just one of the outwards signs. There are more of them, and there really is an indescribable quality to it. And make no mistake, there's a lot of jackass soldiers who look good in formation but do not possess a military bearing otherwise.

[@Tsamokie]

Well written CHJr.

[@cadengrossman7960]

81 years and not one second has past where the tomb was not guarded

[@spilledmilk4801]

It will be one day.

[@slavsupreme5129]

USSuperReal TV Yea no

[@someguy4363]

@Demiclea what makes you think he's gonna die

[@bremCZ]

*passed

[@notlogical4016]

@@someguy4363 damn, when ever the tomb guard has to actually load the rifle is a day i don't want to see.

[@Todomo]

when i watched the changing of the guard the guard on duty had to confront someone in the crowd, i don’t remember why, but everyone was terrified by it.

[@peterbanderas8184]

Todomo tone of voice and attitude. My dad would resort to his "guard voice" when he wanted to scare me or my brother. Trust me, it can make you freak.

[@EchoTeam99]

Todomo we usually only do it if people are to loud or try to go past the chains.

[@jackjones5314]

I was there when a guy didn't stand during the change. He was rather loudly informed of his mistake. Also, a camera lens cap was dropped and rolled towards the tomb. The guard stopped the man going after it and his little boy (probably about 4 or 5 yrs old) went and picked it up.

[@Fermifire]

I like how he calls this weird, but on his video about the Queen's Guard he was all cool with it. Your British is showing Simon.

[@JustinY.]

Man, that is pretty damn interesting.

[@Based_Teikam]

Justin Y. I’m starting to think multiple people run your channel.

[@Zeigren]

uwu

[@Omar_ayach]

I see you making lots of jokes on shitpost channels so i don't know if this is one or not but Yes it was quite interresting

[@Behemoth_Rogue]

Justin Y. And hes here too.

[@SuperDuperSP]

I feel like I've seen you before...

[@densealloy]

All the time invested in preparation, from the year of training, the daily care of their uniforms to the strict behavior (on duty and off) is to show the Country's reverence to the Unknowns by ensuring the Sentinels are the ideal of perfection to military standards and dedication while on hallowed ground. It is a small price to pay in showing respect and honoring the fallen. The soldiers buried there deserve this and more.

[@sparkplug1018]

This is very true, as do all MIA's.

[@kingfobbit399]

And fuckers want to kneel during the National Anthem, this is night and day.

[@mariabenincasa7273]

King FOBbit I'm not going to get into the kneeling discussion apart from saying that there's nothing that says you have to stand for the anthem. www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/36/301

[@kylebrown4978]

@@kingfobbit399 that's an unfair statement.

[@kingfobbit399]

Maria Benincasa , wow you so missed the point. Beastiality is not illegal in all states, but is it morally or socially right?

[@Ned10of11]

I simply cannot describe the awe I feel for these men and the honor they uphold. Their dedication is unmatched in this nation.

[@colemanwalsh7477]

In my eyes even more then the royal guard atlest they aren't guarding a shit all monarch

[@Aaaden]

Was there this past May and witnessed the changing of the guard..will never forget it..very emotional

[@m.aaronbossert7202]

I was a Tomb Guard on the 3rd relief in the late 90’s. There are three reliefs that work rotating 24 hour shifts and are separated by height so that all the guards are as close to the same height as possible. One interesting fact is that because the shift is 24 hours at a time and the sentinels do not leave the tomb during that period, the door you see the guard come out of during the changing of the guard is a barracks with a small room with two bunk beds, a kitchenette, and living space where the rest of the personnel stay during the day. I am 5’11’ which is on the short side, therefore 3rd relief. I saw one comment about needing to have a waist small enough to fit the buff strap around...perhaps that is true, but when I was there, we had a Mat to place our belt, hat, and scabbard on. The rule was that our belt had to fit on the mat without hanging over the edge. At 19, I was much thinner than I am now. To have served in that post was an honor I will never forget. The most memorable moment for me personally was having my father witness my 21st walk, which is a big deal. He later gave me two photos, one of me sitting on his shoulders watching the changing of the guard sometime in the early 80’s and the other of me during my 21st walk.

[@ninponighthawk]

God damned ninjas cutting onions! HOOAH and thank you

[@Mgyuh]

God bless those soldiers. I’m just awed and taken aback by their dedication, their selflessness, giving themselves over to perform such a solemn, dare I even say Sacred duty.

[@randomobserver8168]

I saw this changing of the guard done in August 1990. Still memorable. We were all sitting on the facing steps until the relief commander went through his remarks. I still remember the little pause: "...silent, ... and standing." Cadence is so important.

[@maximusdecimus01]

The soldier who gave everything for everyone... but no one knows his name. Thank you for your service!

[@MervynPartin]

I've watched this ceremony at Arlington- very moving.

[@johnwheater3718]

I am a Merchant Marine my Salute is to them. Thank you.

[@IGIVEINPS3]

wonder how many of these guards appreciate so soild crew..... Big respect for any one with this much discipline and dedicated.

[@vilstef6988]

The dedication required has made me exhausted just listening to it!

[@billbalke7572]

Absolutely perfect presentation ! As a former C Co. 3 US INF (TOG) soldier I thank you for your presentation.

[@groundpounder0541]

Basically you volunteer, pass 3 test outs, and get your badge. It's a lot of work, especially your shoes. I spent probably 15 hours shining my shoes, only to have my relief commander, SSG Lanier, toss them across the room. My entire soul was crushed 😂

[@ajg5138]

Definitely not a weird tradition but a respectable one.

[@ronstillwell3942]

it is not weird !!! this the most respect another soldier and nation can give to a fallen soldier no matter what country he was from !!!!

[@docbrown7916]

I saw this long ago, very impressive, their service and bearing weather is appreciated.

[@scottk3034]

This was my first duty station in 1984.

[@sparkplug1018]

Really? Thats quite an accomplishment this being your first duty station. Thats something to be very proud of.

[@scottk3034]

The recruiters pulled me during my in-processing. Loved what they did but I was a young firebreathing 19 y/o wanted to run around the woods and do Infantry stuff not march day in and out. So after 2 weeks in new man asked to go to a regular line unit. 1-3 is scary good at what they do.

[@scottk3034]

Spent a good part of my off time wandering Arlington. Never forget it.

[@1320crusier]

Probably ran by my great grandfathers grave in line of site of the tomb.

[@peterbanderas8184]

Scott K That is awesome. My dad was also a guard, it is the proudest time of his life. he was picked immediately after boot camp. It actually kept him from going to Vietnam for almost 4 years and allowed him to become a Dust-off pilot. Funniest part of his experience was that he did not understand what the honor guard was. He was not even a citizen of the US, he had just volunteered for the army and thought they were asking him if he wanted to do typical guard duty He said yes because the guys on guard duty got to sleep in late. Lol He even stood guard over President Johnson, but he was still not a citizen of the US at the time! Lol

[@sanchezzz69420]

Our utmost respect for the soldiers who dedicate their lives to protect with their entire dedication.

[@hanscombe72]

I remember watching the film from the eighties called “gardens of stone” about the old guard. They did have footage of real sentinels guarding the unknowns. I did notice that those guys then were so tall and slim. The guards now seem much more solid. Weightlifters as opposed to runners I guess.

[@jamesbreeden3061]

I still have my army dress blue uniform which I purchased and had tailored at Ft. Myer. I was not in the 3rd U.S. Infantry. However, I was infantry. The Old Guard does work their tail off and I am very proud of them. Our fallen heroes deserve it and they take this honor very seriously. One time my fellow soldiers and I went to Arlington in the late evening after it was closed to the public. In the daytime, you can sense it is most hallowed ground, but on a rainy summer night in August, its the most profound feeling I have ever experienced. This happened soon after we completed infantry school at Ft. Benning. People sometimes me what college I went to. I tell them that I went to Benning's School for Boys.

[@zgSH4DOW]

So many brave sons and daughters will never have graves for their families to visit. I appreciate the toil and dedication of these soldiers, for a chance to honor our fallen in the powerful ceremony. The meaning and symbolism aside, the ceremony is very beautiful; no ceremony or drill routine compares to it.

[@toxicberries7337]

Don’t call The United States traditions weird that’s extremely rude, it’s to honor our fallen and give respect and show discipline

[@BoDAssassin]

You can say that about any nation.

[@TheWhiteTrashPanda]

Somehow i never realized the tomb guards were army. I always thought they were marines.

[@tommyodonnell9]

Always been Army.

[@mollystringer6273]

The pants look very marine dress blues-ish (I think marines have three stripes down the side of their pants though: outer two gold and the middle red)

[@gregssingletary]

The Marines do have a separate honor guard that conducts funerals for fallen Marines.

[@colslaw69]

@@mollystringer6273 we have 1 blood stripe on our trousers for NCO and above

[@cyrusatkinson3307]

@@mollystringer6273 Of course the Army has had them since 1902, but not seen outside the Old Guard except for REALLY swanky Army events.

[@markcrenshaw9562]

I went to Arlington a couple of years back and watch the ceremony. I was very impressed with it.

[@colefulks4807]

Anytime I am feeling down, the image of that lone sentinel, out there in the rain and snow, keeping watch over the memory of all those who died so we can leave comments here, I remember how proud I was 40 years ago to witness the changing of the guard as a Civil Air Patrol cadet (USAF Auxiliary). I would like to go back some day and walk “Coast Guard Hill”, I was a Coast Guard Auxiliary for 10 years.

[@bakewell7284]

They do look so darn SMART!

[@donaldthomas3173]

Fun fact, the March is the hardest part as you must appear to float or glide. That alone takes exacting precision.

[@rayhanley8354]

Marching isn’t the hardest part, the hardest part is setting up the uniform.

[@jegrif123]

Absolutely NOT a weird tradition! Those man not only gave their lives, but their IDENTITY for their country. They deserve more, they deserve life, but this is the best we can do for them.

[@markotik75]

Hmmm, feel a little ignorant now... the title of this video was enough for me to watch it as tbh I’d never heard of this. Guess they’re just like our Queens guard in the UK. Interesting video

[@thedevildogdj4998]

Nope, just about 95% different

[@General12th]

@@thedevildogdj4998 Highly trained, ceremonial positions who represent the honor and discipline of their country? They sound pretty similar to me.

[@thedevildogdj4998]

@@General12th the queens guard are literally the "queens guard" while over here we have special identifications and dutys for the different ceremonial titles unlike the british. Such as our colorguard would present the colors (U.S. flag and unit/state flag) while our Honor guard does stuff such as funerals/memorials as well as honoring military and public officials in drill according ways. The only similaritys are that they're both military in a form and they both include drill. And even then our regulations for drill are completely different from theirs.

[@ex-navyspook]

My wife talked to one of the Sentinels who was on-duty on 9/11. He said the plane flew over really closely. He was supposed to have been relieved in about 15 minutes, but the Old Guard had other duties that day at the Pentagon. He said somebody finally relieved him that evening, but it was his honor to not take away another needed body from rescue efforts at the Pentagon. True dedication to duty.

[@dougbourdo2589]

Arlington national cemetery is quite a hallowed place. The Changing of the Guard ceremony is quite impressive. On one visit, I stood and watched the ceremony a dozen times during the day. It is very moving. Having friends buried at Arlington is equally moving.

[@jellointhewind8712]

Get a hobby

[@myplane150]

American version of the Guards at Buckingham Palace. Very impressive.

[@vulgardisplayoftruth2060]

myplane150, no. They're the guard of the unknown soldiers tomb. So even those lost are still protected. The secret service & gate guard at the Whitehouse are like the Queen's guard.

[@darkability1393]

they mean about both jobs being mainly about the symbolism behind them

[@billn9910]

If I recall correctly, the bodies at the tomb are no longer unknown but are representative of all those who have never been recovered.

[@airbornedaddy1919]

No there are still bodys at the tomb, the Vietnam Unknown was the only one removed because they identified him

[@PartOfTheGame]

Wonderful video. And to any and all who serve with honor and integrity in the Old Guard, thank you.

[@d_wang9836]

I can't tell if these are the same or different people in all these photos

[@RussellWilliams736]

That's kinda the point.

[@SCSilk]

And now you know why it’s called a uniform.

[@katherinerichardson2273]

Duwang Man it's supposed to be like that

[@rustcohle3803]

He's saying they all look the same.... you know bald white guys lmao I thought it was obvious

[@jimgreen3966]

Both our countries have an amazing tradition, don't we, Simon?

[@Robert-xp4ii]

I specifically asked an Army soldier about these types of duties and told him it must be a huge honor. I can't remember his "exact" wording but he said these types of ceremonial duties weren't desired due to them just being for show and the exhausting details of their uniform. He did explain it about as well as in this video. I've never served so I have no personal opinion of it and it's entirely possible that he was jealous or just trying to sound tough. I do know I wouldn't want to do that but am glad everyone is different.

[@tommyodonnell9]

Sounds like somebody who quit the Tomb after his first day.

[@MichelleC50]

2:15 the twins from Matrix Reloaded

[@celtgunn9775]

Thank you Simon for your efforts to provide so much information on this. So many people just don't know all of the reasons behind the traditions of the Military and the various things that are done. Like the 21 steps = the 21 gun salute. Hopefully there will be more videos on Military traditions.

[@warrenermish1454]

CSPAN2 has done a marvelous job reviewing the history and anecdotes of the tomb of the unknown soldier. It was first aired on September 28, 2021.

[@EclecticPkm]

Great video Simon. Always enjoy these videos. I could suggest a question: Why is the term “Roger” used in confirming radio communications?

[@lucianagudolledias3629]

Weird????? A cerimônia é elegante, nobre, introspectiva mente vibrante.

[@jasongraves6891]

They will also choose recruits to become sentinels from basic training the first week. They are pulled apart from the rest of the company and start their traing. While I was in every infantryman wanted to became a sentinel. We were briefly told that they look at not only height and weight but also age, and if one has family. For pt they will run around D.C.which I was told was amazing. Yes they even train and get deployed. It is rare to see one in a unit tho.

[@tommyodonnell9]

Having families has nothing to do with it. You don't get recruited while in basic.

[@stealthybanana8751]

Was fortunate enough to witness the changing of the guard back in April on my Senior class trip. There was even a Minnesota Honor flight there which was quite the coincidence.

[@lunchboxproductions1183]

US military logic: Let's take our best soldiers and have them stand around all day.

[@heavylifter315]

Its a temporary duty only lasting 2-3 years out a of possible 20 year career. This wont be their only assignment.

[@CNormanHocker]

The dedication of our men and women in the US military has always made me proud to me the son of veteran parents.

[@dawnsimons118]

Very informative and enlightening . Respect where respect is due . Thank you for sharing.

[@kingfobbit399]

Also, the Tomb badge is the 2nd least awarded badge in the military, the Astronaut badge is first. A DUI or other legal infraction at any time during your Army career (after award) can cause revocation of your Sentinel badge. Delta Company 3d U.S. Infantry (TOG) 1997-2000

[@greggmoldovan1165]

I was told that when these men get sworn in as a guard they are no longer allowed to drink alcohol or swear for the rest of their lives. Under penalty of having to return the guard badge. Deep stuff. Makes one proud.

[@tommyodonnell9]

While the Badge can be revoked, the ban on smoking, drinking and swearing is just internet myth.

[@NotaNinja]

I tried to join. But I'm only 5 foot 5 so I didnt get a chance to try. Literally the only time in my life i felt bad for being short.

[@OrangeSolaire]

I'm from a guards unit myself and while I love serving my country, the uniform stuff is something I never enjoyed. I'd much rather be in the field. That said, being on parade is a special feeling.

[@Cautela]

It is not "weird", it is not "theatrics", it is Tradition.

[@jellointhewind8712]

It's a tradition....of weird theatrics

[@apollo21lmp]

the only thing he got wrong is that the Tomb Guard positions are also open to anyone who is assigned to a unit that is attached to assigned to the 3rd Inf Reg't. which is why there have been several females who have earned the Tomb Guard Badge.

[@molly.dog8brooke792]

I went to Ottawa Canada with my school one year for a 3 day trip. Our tour guide brought us to the tomb of the unknown there. He told us a story about at night at some point someone decided it would be a good idea to pee on the tomb, so now the guard is even stricter and (if I remember correctly, I was 12) they close the area at night so no one can get near it.

[@justinoid4620]

Only the most brainwashed become the old guard

[@claytonhill5688]

7:07 I remember hearing the guard say this

[@PurpleCrownVic]

Guards dont ignore accidental drops. I remember I went with my elementary school and my friend dropped his camera his mom gave him when he was taking a picture. Guard came and did the yelling or whatever when he went to get it....mostly because it was during the changing of the guard. The guard came and apologized after the changing was done.

[@djcfrompt]

Dude...not cool This is not 'weird', this is a deeply respectful undertaking. Young people have laid down their lives for their fellow citizens, and the Sentinels are honoring that sacrifice by doing their absolute best to protect their tomb. Before the Sentinels were posted people would lark about the tomb, taking picnics and generally being disrespectful - Sentinels take their post to ensure that the final resting place of their comrades who made the ultimate sacrifice is respected. Have a little respect for that and don't call it weird just because you don't understand or empathize with why they do it.

[@SeanP7195]

The Old Guard is taken from infantry divisions. You can apply if you are an infantry soldier only. The biggest thing is appearance. Most are tall with very small waistlines. Like a 28 waist or smaller. I believe you had to be 6 foot or close also. The M-14 was replaced by the famous M-16, however, the M-14 is a prettier looking rifle and is used for honor guard duty in all branches. Being dismissed for being unprepared is considered incredibly dishonorable. I was a former infantry soldier and had several NCOs who were ex honor guards.

[@xpeeriments6452]

Your speech cadence is maddening

[@True-Patriot]

Please note that there is a difference between the Tomb of the Unknown and Honor Guard.

[@alexandermoore8597]

The Old Guard got there nickname (as legend goes anyway) from General Winfield Scott during the Mexican-American War, also called Mexican War (April 1846-February 1848). The Story goes that after the US Army took Mexico City they had a review (parade) in the center of the city, when the 3rd Inf passed Gen Scott stood and said to his staff "Stand for the OLD GUARD!" They are also the only US Army unit allowed to review (march in parade) with bayonets fixed, another tradition/honor from Gen Scott.

[@dancinindadark]

How do they repair the rubber they walk on? Decades of tracing the same path and the variable New England weather must wear through it eventually. Do they just patrol next to the path while repairs are underway?

[@davyt0247]

whatame55 There is a small guard shack off to the left of the tomb that may be used during rain or snow. They will post there during cleaning or repairs

[@tommyodonnell9]

New England???

[@Blanderr]

The mat gets changed out for a new one twice a year

[@josephwright9454]

My brother was Old Guard from 1988-1990. As he stated, it was the greatest time of his life.

[@short600]

love the old guard rocking the speed dealers

[@philipworsher5420]

'Hurricain' LOL

[@andrewgoodrum1333]

You are wrong about one part you don’t have to be infantry I was field artillery I was in ait they came to our unit we did standard right face ,left face, about face ,and salute they walked right up to me and asked if I wanted to be in the Honor Guard I said no, i just wanted to keep my cannons

[@Nomans_Nomen]

So this is pretty much the final boss of Drill & Ceremony.

[@jwilliams703]

When I was a recruiter, short lived that was. I had a co worker who was old guard. he told me a story about the time a huricane hit and they still didint leave the tomb. you know 100mph wind, sideways rain, shit hiting you in the face. nope, just kept guarding that shit like a boss. as infantry we like our dnc, but shit these guys take it to the next next level.

[@fearlesscrusader]

J,Williams, what kept him from blowing away in the 100 mph wind?

[@jwilliams703]

fearlesscrusader shere badassery im sure.

[@jacksagrafsky4936]

Do me and those that served and died or were wounded in battle a favor DON'T critique what and how Americans honor them. The men and women that rise to be Sentinels are doing it because they respect those that answered the call and now rest in peace.

[@DarienDragonFox]

This must suck, but its very respectful

[@arwo1143]

Not allowed to acknowledge the existence of furniture while in training... Earning they’re supposed to go full Skyrim?

[@KaBoom501]

It is an impressive ceremony to witness.

[@danielhawkins9717]

The Marine Corps silent drill treat is also badass maybe not on this level. I don’t know if their is really a special ceremonial team close to that level in other branches. Dose the 3rd also have combat Duty’s? Also thank you for your accuracy I even learned something and I like consuming military knowledge all the time

[@tommyodonnell9]

Three Tomb Guards have been KIA. The most recent was SSG Adam L. Dickmyer in 2010.

[@BionicleC4]

Does anyone remember that lady who crosses the rope with her iPad to get a closer look at the tomb and then got yelled at by the guard?

[@GiDD504]

The guard badge is the 3rd most rare badge in the military. Bested only by the military horseman ID badge, and the astronaut badge.

[@cmtippens9209]

From Wikipedia: "It is the third-least awarded badge in the US Military, after the Military Horseman Identification Badge and the Astronaut Badge.[4] "

[@GiDD504]

C M Tippens I’ve been bamboozled.

[@tombrigden7075]

Im sorry but i always notice the US military borrow little bits from other militaries, like the airborne devisions get their maroon beret from the British and the old guard share the same title as Napoleon's old guard. Kind of interesting isn't it if you think about it.

[@kiwionarope]

What an honor this posting would be...

[@darth375]

They actually carry an M1 Garand.

[@todd7419]

Nice video, thanks for making it longer than it needed be so you could squeeze in some ads

[@juliecramer7768]

Impressive!

[@a68riz]

Not a weird tradition sir!