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        New Message Board Archives >> 2007 General Board Posts >> Time to salute our veterans
        
(Message started by: deltadarlin on Nov 9^th, 2007, 8:15am)

Title: Time to salute our veterans
Post by deltadarlin on Nov 9^th, 2007, 8:15am

Sunday is Veteran's day, let's not forget these brave men and women down through history (and currently) who have helped shape and defend the freedoms that all of us enjoy.

Now for your enjoyment, informamtion on the Tomb of the Unknown soldier.

How does the Guard rotation work? Is it an 8 hour shift?

Currently, the Tomb Guards work on a three Relief (team) rotation - 24 hours on, 24 hours off, 24 hours on, 24 hours off, 24 hours on, 96 hours off. However, over the years it has been different. The time off isn't exactly free time. It takes the average Sentinel 8 hours to prep his/her uniform for the next work day. Additionally, they have Physical Training, Tomb Guard training, and haircuts to complete before the next work day.

How many steps does the Guard take during his walk across the Tomb of the Unknowns and why?

21 steps. It alludes to the twenty-one gun salute, which is the highest honor given any military or foreign dignitary.

How long does the Sentinel hesitate after his about face to begin his return walk and does he carry his rifle on the same shoulder all the time, and if not, why not?

He does not execute an about face. He stops on the 21st step, then turns and faces the Tomb for 21 seconds. Then he turns to face back down the mat, changes his weapon to the outside shoulder, counts 21 seconds, then steps off for another 21 step walk down the mat. He faces the Tomb at each end of the 21 step walk for 21 seconds. The Sentinel then repeats this over and over until he is relieved at the Guard Change.

Why are his gloves wet?

His gloves are moistened to improve his grip on the rifle.

How often are the Guards changed?

The Guard is changed every thirty minutes during the summer (April 1 to Sep 30) and every hour during the winter (Oct 1 to Mar 31). During the hours the cemetery is closed, the guard is changed every 2 hours. The Tomb is guarded, and has been guarded, every minute of every day since 1937.

Is it true after two years, the guard is given a wreath pin that is worn on their lapel signifying they served as Guard of the Tomb, that there are only 400 presently worn, and that the Guard must obey these rules for the rest of their lives or give up the wreath pin?

The Tomb Guard Identification Badge is awarded after the Sentinel passes a series of tests. The Badge is permanently awarded after a Sentinel has served 9 months as a Sentinel at the Tomb. Over 500 have been awarded since its creation in the late 1950's. And while the Badge can be revoked, the offense must be such that it discredits the Tomb. Revocation is at the Regimental Commander’s discretion. But you can drink a beer and even swear and still keep the Badge. The Badge is a full size award, worn on the right pocket of the uniform jacket, not a lapel pin.

Has anyone ever tried to get past the Tomb guards, or attempted to deface the Tomb?

Yes, that is the reason why we now guard the Tomb. Back in the early 1920's, we didn't have guards and the Tomb looked much different (see attached picture). People often came to the cemetery in those days for picnics during which time some would actually use the Tomb as a picnic area (probably because of the view). Soon after, 1925, they posted a civilian guard; in 1926, a military guard was posted during cemetery hours; and on July 1, 1937, this was expanded to the 24-hour watch. Since then, the ceremony has developed throughout the years to what we have today. Today, most of the challenges faced by the Sentinels are tourists who want to get a better picture or uncontrolled children (which generally is very frightening for the parent when the Soldier challenges the child).

Title: Re: Time to salute our veterans
Post by deltadarlin on Nov 9^th, 2007, 8:17am

cont.

General Information

The soldiers who stand guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier are hand picked and rigorously trained. They have come from every state in the union, every walk of life. There are men and women. For some this is their first unit in the Army, others are veterans of many years. Over the years there have been Regular Army and Draftees.

The duty is not for everyone. Over 80% of the soldiers who tryout for this duty do not make it.

Each soldier must have strong military bearing, discipline, stamina and present an outstanding soldierly appearance. Each Sentinel must be able to flawlessly perform seven different types of walks, honors and ceremonies. They must retain vast amounts of knowledge concerning the Tomb, Arlington National Cemetery, the United States Army and their unit.

On March 25, 1926 orders were sent down directing the formation of an armed military guard at the Tomb, during daylight hours only. Too many visitors to the cemetery were using the original crypt as a picnic table.

On July 2, 1937, the guard was increased in size, and ordered to begin 24 hour shifts. Both of these documents are the foundation of the Guards existing orders and mission.

The mission of the Guard of Honor, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is as follows:

Responsible for maintaining the highest standards and traditions of the United States Army and this Nation while keeping a constant vigil at this national shrine.
Prevent any desecration or disrespect directed toward the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

One of the first reactions of visitors at the Tomb, is to comment on how tall the soldiers are. While you might not notice the difference in height, a Tomb Guard can tell what Relief is working . . . . just based on their height.

There are three Relief's assigned to the Tomb Guard Platoon, each consisting of 9 enlisted soldiers (they use the same break-down as a Light Infantry Squad). The heights are equal on each Relief, with the tallest assigned to the 1st Relief.

1st Relief 6'2" to 6'4"
2nd Relief 6' to 6'2"
3rd Relief 5'11" to 6'

Each Relief is commanded by a Staff Sergeant (E-6) and has two "Teams", each consisting of an Assistant Relief Commander (E-5) and 4 Sentinels (E-4 and below), for a total of 9 soldiers per Relief. The Headquarter (HQ) Relief consists of the Sergeant of the Guard, Assistant Sergeant of the Guard, the Primary Trainer and a Driver.

If you have ever watched the Changing of the Guard, you will have noticed that not all Guards do the same thing. The Tomb is completely run by Non-Commissioned Officers (NCO). There are six different levels of responsibility at the Tomb:

Sentinel:
This soldier has the hardest job - to stand watch at the Tomb. These soldiers typically have the rank of Private First Class (PFC) through Specialist (SPC) and the average age is 22.

Assistant Relief Commander (ARC):
An NCO with the rank of Corporal (CPL) or Sergeant (SGT), this is the Relief Commander's right hand. Each Relief Commander has two ARC assigned. The average age for an ARC is 24.

Relief Commander (RC):
An NCO with the Rank of Staff Sergeant (SSG). The RC has the greatest responsibility on a day-to-day basis. The RC is not only responsible for conducting the Changing of the Guard, but also for the welfare and morale of the Relief as a whole. In the absence of the Sergeant of the Guard, the RC is responsible for everything that happens at the Tomb. The RC typically has served in two different units in the Army, and the average age is 27.

Assistant Sergeant of the Guard (ASOG):
The ASOG is the typically the senior Staff Sergeant (SSG) in the Platoon. The ASOG has the primary duty of conducting the daily administrative duties, to include oversight of the initial training phase for new Sentinels. The ASOG assumes the duties and responsibilities of the Sergeant of the Guard in his absence.

Sergeant of the Guard (SOG):
The buck stops here! The SOG is the Platoon Sergeant for the Tomb Guards , and holds the rank of Sergeant First Class (SFC). The primary duties and responsibilities of the SOG include Presidential Wreath Ceremonies, as well as the overall responsibility for the conduct and actions of the Platoon. The SOG has served in many different leadership positions in the Army, and typically has been a Platoon Sergeant once before. The SOG is the most experienced NCO in the Platoon, and has the added responsibility of mentoring and developing the junior NCO's. The average age of the SOG is 30.

Platoon Leader (PL):
The PL had varying duties through out the short time they were assigned to the Tomb. On top of the many different duties they still performed at the Company levels (such as Burial duties), the primary job was to oversee the daily functions of the Tomb, much like the SOG. Many times the PL would mingle with the crowd in civilian attire, and find out the reaction of the visitors to the performance of the Guards. They also had the sad, and most emotional, duty of revoking the Tomb Guard Badge and removal of the soldier from the post. The average age of the PL was 25, with the rank of First Lieutenant (1LT).

Title: Re: Time to salute our veterans
Post by deltadarlin on Nov 9^th, 2007, 8:21am

The weapons used by the Tomb Guard are more than just for show. These weapons are fully functional, and are kept ready for use at all times. The weapon inspection conducted prior to the new Sentinel assuming the post, is a real inspection.

The Sentinel's Creed

The Sentinel's Creed are the 99 words we live by. The words bring vast emotions to the surface when spoken by a Sentinel. We tend to stand a little taller, back a little straighter and our head just a little higher. These words capture the true meaning of why we are Tomb Guards. When ever a Tomb Guard salutes a commissioned officer, they always say in a loud voice:

"Line Six, Sir!"

The Sentinel's Creed

My dedication to this sacred duty
is total and whole-hearted.
In the responsibility bestowed on me
never will I falter.
And with dignity and perseverance
my standard will remain perfection.
Through the years of diligence and praise
and the discomfort of the elements,
I will walk my tour in humble reverence
to the best of my ability.
It is he who commands the respect I protect,
his bravery that made us so proud.
Surrounded by well meaning crowds by day,
alone in the thoughtful peace of night,
this soldier will in honored glory rest
under my eternal vigilance.

Knowledge

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Today's Tomb Guard must be able to retain vast amounts of knowledge over many different subjects. With over 150 different grave sites, 12 poems and numerous questions on the history of Arlington National Cemetery, the Tomb and its guards, as well as the US Army and the Regiment, the Knowledge Corner is a small place in the Tomb Guard quarters where trainees demonstrate what they have learned.

In addition to the 3 General Orders that each solider in the Army has to memorize, there are also 3 Special Orders. Click on the photo and you will see a set of Special Orders from the 1950's that contained 4 orders. On this page you will find just a small fraction of what they have to remember.

The Vigil

In measured steps he makes in rounds.
The click of heels the only sounds.
He stands erect so straight and tall,
With pride and dedication responds to the call.
With deep affection his vigil keeps,
Over those who forever sleep.
He responds not to the visitors stare,
Maintaining his vigil as if in silent prayer.

In the morning's twilight hours,
His watch becomes like cathedral towers.
Reaching from earth to heaven above,
A lasting tribute to one man's love.
As time and seasons come and go,
His vigil remains for all to know.
That beneath the sacred Arlington sod,
Lies three buddies KNOWN BUT TO GOD.

Title: Re: Time to salute our veterans
Post by LeLimey on Nov 9^th, 2007, 12:02pm

Thanks for sharing that Carolyn, it was fascinating. I love the tombs of the unknown soldiers - they represent all who died for my freedom to me and I love reading stuff like this.

Lest we forget.

They shall not grow old as we who are left grow old.
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning,
WE WILL REMEMBER THEM.

Title: Re: Time to salute our veterans
Post by Rosybabe on Nov 9^th, 2007, 12:23pm

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e235/pussecatinboots/8499-001-35-1078.gif

Title: Re: Time to salute our veterans
Post by Rosybabe on Nov 9^th, 2007, 12:24pm

http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa130/annettes1959/42f8.jpg

Title: Re: Time to salute our veterans
Post by Rosybabe on Nov 9^th, 2007, 12:26pm

http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o44/helloamy12/jfhf.jpg

Title: Re: Time to salute our veterans
Post by Rosybabe on Nov 9^th, 2007, 12:28pm

http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x6/amymschrader/The%20Goods/JAD_VeteransDay1.png

Title: Re: Time to salute our veterans
Post by Rosybabe on Nov 9^th, 2007, 12:29pm

http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee168/LostJohn2/vetsday07-small.jpg

Title: Re: Time to salute our veterans
Post by Rosybabe on Nov 9^th, 2007, 12:32pm

http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee268/Liz_1002/11_03_07/11-11eagle-storm.gif

Title: Re: Time to salute our veterans
Post by Rosybabe on Nov 9^th, 2007, 12:37pm

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q60/PStandiford/vets_we_remember1.gif

Title: Re: Time to salute our veterans
Post by Linda_Howell on Nov 9^th, 2007, 1:58pm

Thank you for posting this Carolyn.

Besides all the veterens who died serving our country, I'd like to thank those right here, who fought served in Viet Nam and thankfully came home.

Tanner, BobP, Potter and all others who I'm not aware of.

Title: Re: Time to salute our veterans
Post by Jonny on Nov 9^th, 2007, 3:47pm

http://youtube.com/watch?v=-XiuZRb_4UU

:'(

Title: Re: Time to salute our veterans
Post by Mosaicwench on Nov 9^th, 2007, 4:03pm

On our way to RichCon we stopped at the World War II memorial to honor my dad (who passed away a year ago this week). It was one of the most moving times of my life.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2350/1936181929_0eef818d5a.jpg?v=0

The Memorial itself is stunning and humbling.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2321/1936182227_9591e03d8c.jpg?v=0

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2074/1936182365_280b4c7750.jpg?v=0

Thank you all, Veterans, for your service and sacrifice for me and my family.

My dad:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2114/1936207851_a83d27afb3.jpg?v=0

Title: Re: Time to salute our veterans
Post by nani on Nov 9^th, 2007, 5:08pm

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v203/nani36/reflectionsjpg.jpg

Title: Re: Time to salute our veterans
Post by cynjeep89 on Nov 9^th, 2007, 6:55pm

Thanks to all vets...past, present and future.

Title: Re: Time to salute our veterans
Post by Grandma_Sweet_Boy on Nov 9^th, 2007, 6:56pm

on 11/09/07 at 18:55:09, cynjeep89 wrote:

Thanks to all vets...past, present and future.

Amen to that! What wonderfully touching posts on this thread.

Carol

Title: Re: Time to salute our veterans
Post by Charlie on Nov 9^th, 2007, 7:28pm

I believe there are 3....hard to believe only 3 WWI veterans left alive that will be at Arlington. They are great men.

Nice posts kids.

Charlie