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Topic starter
14/11/2026 12:21 am
Last month, I was privileged to be part of the Sons of the American Revolution honor guard as we escorted our National President to place a wreath at the tomb. The military guards' discipline is always incredible to see. I just came across this article about them online:
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
1. How many steps does the guard take during his walk across the Tomb and why?
He takes 21 steps — symbolizing the 21-gun salute, the highest military and foreign tribute.
2. How long does he pause before turning to walk back and why?
He waits 21 seconds, again in honor of the same tradition.
3. Why are his gloves damp?
They are lightly moistened to ensure he never loses his grip on his rifle.
4. Does he keep his rifle on the same shoulder, and if not, why?
He always carries it on the shoulder farthest from the Tomb. After each crossing, he performs an about-face and moves it to the outside shoulder.
5. How often are the guards changed?
Every 30 minutes, 24/7, 365 days a year.
6. What are the physical requirements for a Tomb Guard?
Applicants must be between 5'10" and 6'2" and have a waist no larger than 30".
Other expectations of the Guard:
They devote two years to the Tomb, live in the barracks beneath it, and must refrain from drinking alcohol on or off duty for the rest of their lives.
They can never swear in public or dishonor the uniform or the Tomb.
After two years, they earn a wreath pin signifying their service — fewer than 400 are currently worn.
If they violate the code, they must relinquish the pin.
Their shoes have thick soles to protect against extreme temperatures and metal heel plates that create the crisp click when they halt.
Uniforms must have zero wrinkles or lint and are inspected in a full-length mirror.
For the first six months, guards do not speak to anyone and do not watch television.
Their off-duty time is spent studying the 175 notable individuals buried at Arlington National Cemetery, memorizing who they are and where they rest.
Among them: President Taft, Joe E. Lewis, and Audie Murphy, the most decorated WWII soldier.
Every guard spends five hours daily preparing their uniform.
ETERNAL REST GRANT THEM, O LORD, AND LET PERPETUAL LIGHT SHINE UPON THEM.
When Hurricane Isabel approached Washington, D.C. in 2003, Congress shut down for two days. The guards were offered permission to suspend duty due to danger.
They replied: “No way, Sir!”
Drenched and marching through the storm, they insisted that guarding the Tomb is the highest honor, not just a task.
The Tomb has been continuously guarded — day and night — since 1930.
God Bless and Keep Them
John Kuvakas
Warrenton, VA
14/11/2026 1:09 am
Please go here and read the FAQ's....
14/11/2026 1:22 am
I clicked on what you presented and nothing is coming up. What may I have done wrong?
14/11/2026 1:47 am
Go to tombguard.org and click on FAQ's.
No hyperlinks here, you actually have to do it.
14/11/2026 2:36 am
Wow, I hope more Forum members read this. I’ve got wet eyes. Period.
Thank-you!
14/11/2026 4:21 am
It was my honor & privilege to visit The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier about 10 years ago. One of the most touching and moving experiences of my life. Years ago, PBS aired a wonderfully produced documentary regarding every aspect about the monument and the qualifications & high standards necessary required of those who stand guard.
As I recall, honor-guards demonstrated a specific trick for removing ANY lose threads, fuzz, or unwanted lint from their uniform - they're quickly passed a Bic lighter flame over their clothes, thereby burning away anything unsightly.
All Americans should visit Arlington National Cemetery. Courtesy and the proper demeanor should be observed at all times as a sign of respect to all those laid to rest there.
- Thanks John
14/11/2026 5:21 am
Very moving.
John Bono
North Jersey
14/11/2026 5:54 am
We spent a week in D.C. seeing various country buildings and memorials. And, yes, the two most moving were the Holocaust Museum and Arlington Cemetery/Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Sharing here the Changing of the Guard at the Unknown Soldier's Tomb.
14/11/2026 6:38 am
May God always bless the unknown soldiers and those who guard them.
14/11/2026 7:26 am
I went to the site, it is very informative. May they all rest in peace. Our Heavenly Father knows who they are.😊🙏
14/11/2026 12:59 pm
We did not visit the Tomb of the Unknown then, but Joanne and I were at Arlington in July of last year to have her brother's remains interred there. The ceremony was almost overwhelmingly powerful and emotional.