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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Sources:
• Tomb of the Unknown So...
wamu.org/news/13/04/11/how_not...
• Unplugged: Guarding Th...
www.washingtonpost.com/express...
www.oldguard.mdw.army.mil/spec...
abcnews.go.com/Politics/sentin...
www.army.mil/article/38013/
www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/Expl...
tombguard.org/tomb-of-the-unk...
www.freetoursbyfoot.com/guardi...
Image Credit:
www.flickr.com/photos/soldier...
media.defense.gov/2011/Mar/16...
www.af.mil/News/Article-Displa...
www.army.mil/article/86705/a_...
www.flickr.com/photos/timevan...
www.army.mil/article/86699/fi...
www.macdill.af.mil/News/Photos...
www.honorguard.af.mil/News/Pho...
www.army.mil/article/97757/ol...
www.army.mil/e2/c/images/2013...
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“So no one out ranks the unknown...” that’s deep.
Sam O'Nella University that’s America, sunshine😉.
Out of respect for the unknown soldiers who identities and therefore, ranks, were never discovered.
@@susanisrael9779 something you'd never understand or respect. Shows how bright you aren't.
21, 63, 666. Very interesting.
@@TheBlackDeck Not really.
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
rob waldron awesome of you. Thank you brother.
Those buckingham palace guards are not slouches either.
And I was thinking that those who received the VC were "elite".
So no trying to be disrespectful or anything but what exactly is the purpose of these guys and the holy “show” they do.
@@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.
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
Oh wow really that’s insane I can’t believe ur tour guide gave u that exclusive inside piece of information
@@mdhcccc it's not exclusive information. If you spend a little time just to think about it, you would have reaches that conclusion aswell.
Indeed.
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
@@nelzelpher2088
Ignore him Andrew, he can't spell dedication, let alone comprehend what his left wing mind understands.
If I am not mistaken, the Tomb Guard badge is the 2nd rarest badge, device, ribbon or medal issued in all branches of the military. The Astronaut wings being the rarest. The Tomb Guard badge is the only award that can be taken away after service.
3rd Rarest, Atronaut taking 2nd with only 17 awarded, but there is one even rarer the Military Horseman Identification medal that only has been awarded 10 times since established in 2017.
Xander - the horseman a brand new badge.
And it can be taken away after retirement as well, not just during service for any violation that would bring discredit upon the uniform. You can't even have so much as a traffic ticket before joining.
Jcrewjim you’re mistaken
Any award can be taken away
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.
@Peter Banderas
I'm so glad I dug through the comments and found your story! Truly a kind gesture.
What an incredible story and act. Chokes me up , more then a little. G-d bless
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...
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
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. czcams.com/video/6kP9jbFs9vQ/video.html
One of the many things that impressed me about the changing of the guard ceremony was the stone under their feet had been polished smooth at every place their feet touched the ground. Every soldier steps exactly where the last has stepped. The detail so precise that the polished stone even matches the left/ right cadence! Just incredible!
The least we can do for the unknown soldiers is respect as embedded in the honor guards. God bless
Karen: WAIT I NEED TO GET THIS AWESOME ANGLE FOR A PICTURE LEMME CROSS THE LINES
@@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)
@@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
The Tomb of the Unknown as well as any cemetary is hallowed and sacred ground
Reverence, and respect should always be adhered to.
@@SheyD78 if you look up trespassing of unnamed tomb you'll understand. ( dumb people who cross the chains and fence and steps onto concrete. )
My utmost respect to the Tomb Guards! These guys are incredibly disciplined.
@@michaelsheridan9741 Is it weird that I feel the opposite? I look at these guys as robots with no choices of their own.
@@michaelsheridan9741 still a pretty curious custom. And to be really honest, i think the guys at arlington deserve more respect than the unknown soldier.
@@michaelsheridan9741 I hear you.. I think its just hypocrisy. I just think about the homeless veterans in every city in America who cant afford a meal. It just shows that this is more of a charade than it is respect.
whowantstogetgoodido you are 100% right! The government doesn’t and our military doesn’t give a damn about veterans. And this tomb sentinel thing is useless. Money could be used to feed or care for people but they use it on a soldier that just walks in lines and yells at people for what! I agree that the fallen soldiers deserve respect. But times have changed. Leave the tomb to its eternal rest.
These sentinels and guards don’t have lives. They’ve been enslaved by the military. It’s time for a change. Let the dead rest in piece by not having someone walk all over these grounds. I understand what it represents but is it necessary? No it’s not.
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!!!
rwest1833_MGTOW ..... Hooah!!
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.
This job is now open to all MOS. Used to be only infantry.
Thank you for your service
Ever shoot anyone?
"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.
Amen
Hoorah!!!
Crimson Tiger ❤️
Crimson Tiger look over everyone. If you only want your group to be looked after, you deserve, and have earned, nothing
@@70mjc Not everyone deserves such honor. You are one such individual.
My Cousin served as a Tomb Sentinel For many years (I believe his last walk was in 2012) he's always held that being a Tomb Sentinel was the thing he was proudest of in his service in the Army.
And rightly so. We thank your cousin.
I saw the changing of the guard 6 weeks before 9-11 and it helped solidify my convection to join the Army. I was 15 and enlisted at 17, yes my parents signed the forms, and hoped for infantry as i knew it would have made it easier to get into the old guard. My dream goal was to become a sentinel. Fate had it's way and I went into field artillery. I never gave up hope but it wasn't in the cards for me. It was the most moving ceremony I had ever witnessed and still is to this day.
Sentinel or not, I want to thank you for guarding my country, family, and I. I want to speak for all civilians, as I am one, we are forever in your debt, and all the other men and women who sacrificed for us, past and present. Thank you
You served your country. Period.
As a Marine veteran (1969-73), I want to thank you for standing your watch for your country, no matter your pathway.
Oh wow, that's awesome. I am very honored to hear you did your country proud and I give you my deepest respect regardless of you reaching your original goal or not you are a great example to all Americans and I am personally very proud of you.
You did it. You were combat ready.
You served.
Thanks,
I wish some people had a fraction of discipline they had. One was stabbed accidentally & still kept his composure. God bless these men who dedicated their time to guard those who will never be known to us.
Yeah, don't you just hate it when you get accidentally stabbed...
echelon2k8, irritates me every time.
I think I saw that one....the relief commander lost his grip on the rifle and it fell bayonet down. The incoming guard was injured and did not walk the post.
There's another vid where the relief commander klonked the incoming guard in the head during a spin (with the barrel, not the bayonet). The incoming guard didn't even move, except for his head being knocked aside a little by the contact...no reaction or change of expression. Amazing discipline there.
Even more so that the hit didn't knock his cover askew.
i accidentally stabbed a person at my school and they screamed like a little bitch, smh
@@mackenziefiona1840 I accidentally hammered down a shovel on my foot when i was a kid. Not sure why...i bet i was such a dumbass as a child. 😅
It was my honor to serve with The Old Guard back in 1976-77 during the bicentennial year. We truly worked our asses off that year (76) with ceremonies nearly daily, in addition to our burial duties at Arlington. It was a wonderful experience for me, but I never even considered requesting tomb duty, way to much work and dedication. The Old Guard had many specialty Companies, the Commander In Chief's Guard which trained from the Manual used by the originator unit from the 1700's, the Casson Platoon which cared for the only horses still in active duty in the Army, including "Black Jack" who was the riderless horse from the JFK funeral, he passed away while I was there, I had the honor of working the sound system for his last birthday celebration, still have the napkin that they served the cake on, and at the honors given when he passed away.
Jerry Ericsson ur gay
Kyle Biddle fuck you bitch
Jerry Ericsson That is a great honor. Thank you.
And i bet you will keep that momento forever.
Thank you for your service.
Thank you for your respect and service for those in the tomb who gave their all.
Never forget the soldiers who have fallen defending this tomb all over the world; on October 22 2014 Corporal Nathan Cerillo was shot twice while guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Ottawa, Canada by a terrorist. He was killed. We continue to forget that these men and women regularly put themselves in a position to be taken advantage of. I have lots of respect for those who attain this privilege and everything should too.
Lesley Dale fuck Canada
That’s so fucking stupid Canada literally copies everything America does
@@christophertoole6994 You're pathetic
@@christophertoole6994 Contrary to the US, Canada has NEVER lost a war. Remember 1812 ?
@@simonrancourt7834 Yup when we kick the British SAS in the canadiens win O we better make friends with the Americans because they beat a bar daddy. And the French when oh we make friends let the Americans because they beat a bar and me and they kicked a** on Spain remember 1815, And don't forget we were outnumbered and out gunned did and we still won. Thanks Andrew Jackson.
I was in the Old Guard, and it was the greatest experience I've had. Bravo 1/3, 3rd United States Infantry regiment.
Bambino The Great I am currently in Bravo company!
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.
The Old Guard is basically the U.S.A. equivalent of The Queens Guard in England with how ceremonial they are.
batmanfanforever08 Basically yes, though the Queens Guard is made up of several regiments (though there are slight differences in uniform)
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?
@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.
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
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.
Last summer I saw the changing of these guards, PRECISION of the event is a understatement...it's open to the public at Arlington National Cemetery...quite a site to behold..you never forget it.
KHS Warriors Girls Volleyball Idunno man, reminds me of the precision we required in marching band. Not even kidding, it was just as precise. Not as honorable, though.
Not to be offensive, but I guarantee it isn't. The amount of extremes they go to in precision seems like it should be inhuman. To the extreme of moderating your blinking, and measuring the exactness of their paces with rulers. Marines are known for the fact that we all do close order drill in bootcamp regardless of our job, but compared to the Tomb Guards it's a disgusting mess.
bower32, While it is a job that is extreme in many points, it is in fact a job many strive to get and a job many see as a honorable position. It is not a position you'll get bystanders immediately recognizing you in public when you are outside of uniform, but a position held so dearly with privileged honor to oneself that is to hold a rank honorable enough to watch over the deceased unknown men and woman who fought for this nation. To them, they see their effort worth nothing in comparison to all the people who died in the war, forever unknown into history in which their actions will never surely be recognized as each individual.
They see it as, the only way to not taint the names of the unknowns, is to hold deep respect thru extreme conditions as to preserve the unknown's legacy, and as well to provide respect to all the families of the unknowns.
Nova Fawks
There's a video of a Tomb guard change ceremony where the weapon inspection was fumbled and the bayonet went into the sentinel's boot at the toe. No idea if it made contact with his foot, but he didn't flinch. And then he carried on as if nothing had happened.
Yes it did - if you look closely, you can see the blood trail...
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
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.
Poor choices of wording plague this video, starting with the thumbnail...
What do you expect. He's English.
> English
> poor choice of words
Wait, what? Is this some inside joke stereotype I don't know about?
English the nationality, not the language. And yes, it's a joke. Simon makes good videos.
How are rules that are so strict respectful.
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.
My grandpa was one of these guards. I never really knew how awesome it was.
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.
We were there at the same time! I was in E Co. 3rd U.S. Inf., and later Recon Plt. Very cool!
On CZcams you can find a video of a standing guard and his weapon being inspected at the start of the vigil. What makes this one video different from the rest is that the inspecting sergeant while inspecting the rifle drops the inverted rifle onto the guards shoe. Naturally the bayonet pierces the guards shoe and foot and blood is seen. The wounded guard is seen to wince slightly but does not flinch. Absolutely amazing.
And within an hr. that SGT was no longer a tomb guard. Mistakes like that are not tolerated. They may have gone so far as to pull his Tomb Guard Device.
It’s a little ironic that the unknown soldier(s) is probably one of the best known soldier(s) in the world.
🥺🥺 I just teared up a little at that :’)
As a Marine, these are the most squared away Army guys and gals you’ll ever meet and have my respect. Was just there 12/15/21 and witnessed this amazing tour of duty honoring our Armed Forces.
I was in the Old Guard from 2007 to 2010, and while I wasn’t a Tomb Guard, the only thing I can add to this video is that you can actually lose your Tomb Guard badge after you’ve retired from the military for a criminal record.
Do you mean if they commit a crime while in the service or if they commit crimes as a civilian?
Form what I’ve heard, both.
@@thomashughes5273 It can happen years after leaving the Tomb and/or the Army.
Any time after you get your badge it can be taken. There was a tomb guard that got a DUI 20 some years after he was out of the army and they ripped his name off the board.
Anyone who retires from the military can be called back to face UCMJ (Uniform Code of Military Justice) punishment including courts martial and lose rank and their retirement. A retirement is just considered a change in status and you are continuing to be paid.
Who even does this ? These guys are super-human. I love the smooth way the walk !!! Like they gliiiide. The way they turn is sooo smooth and perfect. Michael Jackson must have gone there when he was little. Never saw that smooth and exact calculated moves like they do. They are aaaamaaaaazing to see. They move me to pure tears, when i see these guys. This job is beyond hard to have ever.
My father, who retired an Officer of the US Army is buried at Arlington. We witnessed the ceremony and it is impressive and very moving.
My father, retired Air Force, is also buried at Arlington.
Bless them both for their service
Steven K Harrison May you always enjoy the good memories of your dad.
Thank you
The sentinel not only pays respect to the unknown soldiers, but also to the known.
Nope, I do not qualify.
Let's see, qualifications: Build? Nope. Upkeep of attire? Not even close. Precision? On that level? Are you kidding me? Will to stand out in whatever weather staring at nothing for hours every day punctuated only by walking 21 steps in a precise manner and waiting exactly 21 seconds? Yeah... no thank you.
I don't even check a single box on their list. Glad someone does so I don't have to!
lol
Lol it’s okay neither do I hahaha
There's probably like 10 people in the country that do. They're that picky.
25 - 30 usually - they are an honor platoon (not counting the trainees).
81 years and not one second has past where the tomb was not guarded
It will be one day.
USSuperReal TV Yea no
@Demiclea what makes you think he's gonna die
*passed
@@someguy4363 damn, when ever the tomb guard has to actually load the rifle is a day i don't want to see.
I saw it once. Anyone wanting to hold elective audience should be made to watch it. Then walk the cemetary. To understand the costs of their actions.
I dont think the selfish uncaring actions of many politicians would be unchanged. Many just don't care about anything but themselves.
Many people find this a waste. I cannot imagine how. This is the utmost respect for the fallen that cannot be otherwised known and honored they died for us. Whether in a war you do or do not agree with and there are many I disagree with but I disagree with the government not the solider they did what they thought was right and laid down their lives defending out countries. Drafted or not they showed up and fought. They deserve to be honored this is the most rigorous form of respect that can be paid. Right now no matter when you read this comment there is a man marching guarding and honoring those who died. I'm just twenty two years of age. I have no interest in joining the military nor do I enjoy our government but I really respect the troops. I think we all should. Despite if you agree with the war you should at least respect the men and women who accepted the risk to do what they believed was protecting their homeland. This is a high form of that respect and of all the bullshit my tax dollars have and will fund. At least it is going towards one thing that actually matters. Whoever said this is a waste I hope is not from this country.
Many people can go F themselves.
Well the biggest issue I have is all these strict standards. You lose a point for your buttons just being fractions of an inch off? Who cares! It comes off as snobbish and was clearly written by an officer clerk with too much time on his hands. Nobody except a career officer would notice such a thing. Also, no disrespect for the tomb but... those guys are dead. They don't really need to be guarded from anything. The Tomb Sentinels are a waste in that all that discipline and training could be suited better in other areas like combat medics or special forces, or intelligence. But instead, they are guarding a stone memorial which can easily be looked after by security guards or police volunteers. I know it holds sentimental value for a lot of people within the military but from a practical stand points, it's a waste of taxpayers dollars and manpower to do such a thing.
@@556deltawolf there is so much wrong with your post. But you are entitled to your opinion.
556deltawolf The standards are so strict because that’s their way of showing the most respect to the fallen unknowns that gave up there lives for us.
@@tylercorbin8073 "That gave up their lives for us" how do you know that though? Remember these are guys who can't be identified. For all we know most of them could be enemy soldiers. Really the whole strict standards is just further evidence of the snobbish elitism within the military high command which led to those men dying horrific deaths anyway!
I was on a base honor guard (air force), and every funeral we did was always humbling and honorable. We never grew complacent at it (i was on it for 2 years), so i can only imagine the honor it is to guard the unknowns
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.
Well written CHJr.
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.
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.
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.
Todomo we usually only do it if people are to loud or try to go past the chains.
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.
Man, that is pretty damn interesting.
Justin Y. I’m starting to think multiple people run your channel.
uwu
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
Justin Y.
And hes here too.
I feel like I've seen you before...
It was a great honor watching the ceremony take place two years ago when my high school lacrosse team took a trip up to the DC area. I will never forget seeing the white tombstones, JFK’s eternal flame, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Was there this past May and witnessed the changing of the guard..will never forget it..very emotional
I recently went on a school trip to Washington D.C. and saw a changing of the guard and it was amazing.
Also I am truly and totally disgusted by the amount of disrespect in the comments.
Technically the "Old Guard" is not the oldest continuously serving unit in the U.S. Military. Although, it may be the oldest unit in the Regular Army. The oldest unit in the US Military is probably The First City Troop Philadelphia Cavalry (currently assigned to the Army National Guard). They deserve their own "Today I found out" - as they were utilized as Washington's personal bodyguard in the War of Independence.
National Guard units have deployed often in all of our current conflicts. The Troop is currently an Armor Company equipped with M1 Abrams. They are most certainly among "the oldest continuously serving military units". What is your point?
I think you'd have a better chance of getting the video done by the "Simple History" channel.
It really depends on who you ask as to which is the oldest unit in the US Army. The Army recognizes 4 units that have continuous service going back to 1636. They are the 181st and 182nd Infantry Regiments, the 101st Field Artillery Regiment, and the 101st Engineer Battalion which are all part of the Massachusetts National Guard and are based in and around Boston. The Florida National Guard traces its history to 20 Sept 1565 which was the first muster at St Augustine and the capture of the French settlement at Fort Caroline.
erwin669 You have a point but not everything you google is true. In the French and Indian War Massachusetts was a British Colony and any Militias were not part of the "US Military" the same holds true for the Florida Militia commanded by a Spanish Admiral. No disrespect intended.
The US Army was founded on 14 June 1775, while what would become the United States was still British colonies. The US Army officially recognizes that units in service now existed before the formation of the country. The Army even recognizes the service of current units in the Confederate Army and allows them to incorporate Confederate flags into their insignia.
I simply cannot describe the awe I feel for these men and the honor they uphold. Their dedication is unmatched in this nation.
In my eyes even more then the royal guard atlest they aren't guarding a shit all monarch
The holy sentinels of the fallen stand as the last wall, a wall of flesh cloth and steel, upon which all beseechers will be smashed, a wall untouched by time, uncaring to the weather and unyielding in it's mission.
The sentinels guard the dead for the dead have already guarded the living.
@Anarchy Empire You do no respect to the Unknowns by misspelling words, you know?
Stephen Wright ah cut him some slack atleast he tried
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.
This is very true, as do all MIA's.
And fuckers want to kneel during the National Anthem, this is night and day.
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
@@kingfobbit399 that's an unfair statement.
Maria Benincasa , wow you so missed the point. Beastiality is not illegal in all states, but is it morally or socially right?
I love how you can clearly see where the footprints have been in the same spots over the years...
I remember watching the changing of the guard with my dad when we were in D.C. it was amazing. I saw it when I was a kid but watching it as a high school graduate really meant more to me.
Great video, thank you for your respectful manner in describing it. I really enjoyed the information you presented.
“Weird tradition”? I don’t think so.
it is. It's just a show and probably was made because they were jealous of the UK royal guard.
Do you really need someone to stand guard on the unknown soldier tomb ? is he detained? is he a prisoner ?
Is this the unknown soldier of your country ? or of an enemy country that need an elite guard guarding him as a symbol of american superiority ?
@@ereder1476 Yeah, nah. The royal who? Never heard of them.
Ereder it’s a lot deeper than “just for show” it’s to honor the dead and the soldiers lost in war. It’s to honor those men who’s bodies could not be recovered during war. The men lost in no man’s land, the soldiers on the bottom of the ocean, the soldiers kidnapped by Taliban. It is at the core a “show” but it is what the show is for that makes it important. Also yeah it is very similar to the royal guards.
@@deletednet3919 Is it thought? People seems to go there to watch "the show" to watch the sentinel more than paying respect.
Compare that to the 'original' tomb of the unknown soldier in france , people go there for the unknown soldier/tomb itself. Not to watch what, from an outsider perspective: the equivalent of a disneyland show.
You are kind of pointing out the biggest issue at the end of your comment: "royal guards" . This whole thing of having armed guards patroling 24/7 the tomb makes it looks like they are guarding a dangerous foes rather than someone they honor.
You can find many symbolism, our brain is good for that. You can find countless symbolism even on disneyland show.
this is why i am taking a step back to see the whole thing and it's issue it bring to me.
For instance: they could just as well decided to patrol in WW2's outfit .. or even better ragged outfit that mix and match the outfit of all the fighter. instead of super clean and shinny vestment... who seems to be designed more about presentation for the public, even though it can be interpreted as a sign of respect. (anyway as you can see symbolism can be argued unless it's a dogma/taught. that's what i'm speaking about what they do rather than what they mean)
@@ereder1476 this goes on 24/7 every day 365 days a year no matter the weather and this over a century old in tradition.
Had two very good friends that served in the Old Guard. One of which was my squad leader at one point, and I can tell you that they are VERY keen on uniform appearance; even long after they’ve left the Old Guard.
My dad's best friend from his tour in Vietnam was a member of the Tomb Guard on his very next posting after combat. I've never seen them myself but I have undying respect for them.
Thanks for the video. I have to say I love all the videos on all the different channels you have now.
The dedication required has made me exhausted just listening to it!
God bless the Old Guard.
"Of The Troops And For The Troops!"
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.
Served in honor guard company from 2008-2012, this video is spot on, my roommate in the barracks was a tomb guard, and trust me when I tell you this barely scratches the surface of what they put the guys through during training. “Our standard is perfection”
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.
I've watched this ceremony at Arlington- very moving.
My late father served as a Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown during the Korean War era. But he never talked about it. He wasn't really an open, talkative person in general. Watching this helped me understand him a little better. Thank you very much for this video. Oh, he also could sleep standing up with his eyes open. ...I really miss him.
One of the most beautiful and dignified traditions in the military. My hat’s off to you soldiers. Semper Fi from an old Marine.
Bless my military. I went to Arlington and the sight was incredible. There was total silence while he did his 21 steps, 21 seconds...
Bless just gives you a +1 to hit and a +1 to damage. Why would you cast it at a cemetary with no hostiles about?
Don't be such neckbeard Razar.
Razar Campbell incase of Necromancer who try tainting the ground?
Wolf Fortright
That's why you want to keep 1 Dispel Magic memorised; Just in case.
Razar Campbell lol no purification?
It takes more training and knowledge to guard a tomb than it does to be the Commander-in-Chief of the entire armed forces.
Kevin Froman ...what
Jeevo Trump. They were mocking Trump.
...And his ridiculous incompetence.
This is the best tongue-in-cheek way of saying that I've ever heard.
And what's more, it's literally true, as there are WAY more and far stricter requirements for this than legal requirements to be President, although this job is extremely specific and just one thing every day, the President has to be more flexible in multiple capacities. Still, the statement is just too true!
danfg: earn a billion dollars ?!?!? You do know that his money is all smoke and mirrors. Just because you can take out billion dollar loan when have 1.5 billion dollars of debt, doesn't make you a billionaire. Trump is the poor man's conception of wealth.
Could you clarify what exactly Trump has done? The vast majority of economic increase during his presidency can be attributed to policies implemented by President Obama pulling the entire country out of the Great Recession. On the other hand, Trump has at this point spent AT LEAST 54 days golfing (confirmed) and made 110 trips to golf clubs. Obama had only made 38 trips in this period of time, suggesting that Obama dedicated much more of his time to the presidency than Trump.
God Bless - OUR Veteran's - All of Them...Thank You, for Your Service...
wonder how many of these guards appreciate so soild crew.....
Big respect for any one with this much discipline and dedicated.
It's not a "Weird Tradition" it's called respect
Right on!
No it's weird, the rules are excessive & unnecessary.
@@oisinm332 How dare you say such a thing. Have respect.
@@Nordic_Noctowl Eh no
Agreed. It's the wrong word. Wearing mismatched socks or blue hair is weird. Keeping traditions is not weird.
First thought when seeing the title: ‘I don't remember there being any guards at the Arc de Triomphe’
Absolutely perfect presentation !
As a former C Co. 3 US INF (TOG) soldier I thank you for your presentation.
I saw this about 15 years ago shortly before I deployed to Iraq. I swear the sergeant conducting the ceremony looked me in the eyes when he said to remain standing. Yeah, I was sitting when this went down. I was kinda embarrassed but of course I quickly jumped to my feet. Much respect for these people.
Also, I saw some comments related to why so few women had ever been sentinels. The reason is actually much simpler than one might think. Until 1997 or 1998 (can’t remember the exact date), the most basic requirement to become a Sentinel was to be assigned to the 3rd US Infantry Regiment. At the time I was there, no women could be in the infantry. The change that occurred was that duty as a Sentinel was opened up to the military Police unit at Ft. Meyer, then again expanded to include more units, if I remember correctly. I was at the tomb when the first woman became a Sentinel and she was from the Military Police unit. So, the reason so few women have been sentinels is really quite mundane as there have been very few people at all to be sentinels, but the pool from which women could apply for the duty was extremely small compared to men (easily hundreds of potential male applicants vs somewhere in the ballpark of dozens of women).
You'd think it might have more to do with the fact that they must stand between 5 feet, 10 inches and 6 feet, 4 inches tall.
ThisIsAigle they removed the height requirement or lowered it for women, if I remember correctly. But as chance would have it, the first woman to become a Sentinel was around 5’11”.
So she was an MP in Florida? :-)
One of my closest friends trained those guys for a couple years, and I can tell you that you are almost understating things.
Very informative and enlightening . Respect where respect is due . Thank you for sharing.
This was incredibly informative. Thank you.
9:03 yo I went to muscle shoals middle school I didnt go on the trip because it was $2500 dollars but I remember seeing pictures of that in my school lol
This is the only badge you earn in the Army that can be taken away from you for your after service conduct.
The soldier who gave everything for everyone... but no one knows his name. Thank you for your service!
I love this channel, I could watch it all day!
Bonus fact: The tomb guard insignia is the second least awarded in the military. The only one more rare is “astronaut.”
Mike Bellis the caisson military horseman badge is actually less awarded than the tomb guard badge with less than 100 awarded so far
Burd Willet But it was only established in 2017, and only 10 have been awarded thus far
Brian Greene it’s in the 80s awarded
This was not the first such burial. The original graves were for an unknown/unidentified British person who died on a European battlefield during WW1, being buried in Westminster Abbey. At the same time, a French soldier was buried at the Arc de Triomphe, Paris, France. Both were interred on 11 November, 1920 with the sight of the internment of the British soldier being named the grave of The Unknown Warrior, usually called The Tomb of The Unknown Warrior. The French internment is known as the La tombe du soldat inconnu (The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier). These are the original graves to honour the unknown dead of any war. All such burial sights from all other countries are known as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, with a few exceptions and with slight variations. One example is the Monument to the Unknown Sailor, in Ukraine. A few countries did bury unknown soldiers at earlier dates but it is only recently that they acquired the name of "Tomb of the Unknown Soldier." The name in the United States has been changed to the Tomb of the Unknowns.
Most of the conditions for the selection and the ceremonies attached to the processes of the U.S. Military originate from those laid down by the British Army and the U.S. just copied them, with minor changes.
'nuf sed
Wotdermatter, and it has only been even more recently that burial sites have been changed to burial sights.
And the reason it’s the Tomb of The Unknowns, is that unknown soldiers from different conflicts are buried there.
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.
I saw this long ago, very impressive, their service and bearing weather is appreciated.
I find it depressing that people will cry when a fictional cartoon character dies at the movies, but not even feel a sadness when standing at the grave of a hero whose family will never know the truth of what happened to them.
Well, throughout watching the cartoon you get to know that character to at least some extent, probably a decent extent if it's making someone cry about their death. There's an emotional connection that was created over the course of the movie. Where as the unknown hero is just that, you may be thankful for their service and sacrifice, and may indeed be saddened by their death, but there's no build up emotional connection built upon it. It's not like people cry about a random unknown character that died before the movie even started. Someone might cry if Mulan or Li Shang died, but they're not gonna cry about the soldiers killed on the wall at the beginning.
Most of the unknows in recent history where people without families for the most part. People with families are usually known and could be missing in action or killed in action. Because of DNA technology getting better and better they have been able to identify some unknown bodies which is pretty good. There are some unknows though from WW1 and before we will likely never know there identity
Uh... if the family never knows what happened to him, how do you know that the death was heroic in nature?
Patraic Emery You realize what an oxymoron it is that you said?
If they are unknow how would you know if that had a family or not?
Reread your writings before you write something that makes no sense.
Joe Ferrari read the top comment we're he says there family
I keep thinking you're Michael from VSauce.
Wonderful video. And to any and all who serve with honor and integrity in the Old Guard, thank you.
I really enjoyed this video very much. I was always interested in the tomb guards, and how they are chosen. Thank you for sharing this.
Definitely not a weird tradition but a respectable one.
When I was in basic at ft. Benning myself and 3 other guys were asked if we wanted to join the old guard. I know you had to have a high ASVAB score be over 6 foot tall, have a good pt score and some other criteria that I can't recall because it was over 20 yrs ago. Those guys are high speed as fuck lol.
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.
God damned ninjas cutting onions! HOOAH and thank you
Our utmost respect for the soldiers who dedicate their lives to protect with their entire dedication.
Went on a trip to DC in fifth grade, and we managed to see the entire changing of the guards ceremony. I was appalled at how the guards seemed to have a perfect, straight stance the entire time they were walking back and forth. Once the ceremony began, the guards announced-yelled for the crowd to put away their phones and to be quiet and respectful. Never have I forgotten that day.
UsoppFanGirl you were "appalled"? I think you need to crack a dictionary.
Ya so disgusting I can't believe it.
Very appalled
I think I figured out one of the traits the soldiers need to have. The ability to tortoise up and retract one's head into the body @ 3:43
Lol! Great catch.
FUCK YOU!
Why is this not top comment
Heh. Pretty good.
I just saw them do this in person and it was extremely impressive. Everything is soooo precise. I should probably upload the video.
I went to Arlington a couple of years back and watch the ceremony. I was very impressed with it.
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.
This was my first duty station in 1984.
Really? Thats quite an accomplishment this being your first duty station. Thats something to be very proud of.
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.
Spent a good part of my off time wandering Arlington. Never forget it.
Probably ran by my great grandfathers grave in line of site of the tomb.
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
Bonus Fact - As the Sentinel makes his turns at the end of the walk, he also shifts his weapon to the shoulder away from the Tomb.
There’s another comment here that says the rifle is always on the side facing the tomb. So now I have to go research it lol. I have to know lol
@@prepperjonpnw6482 The weapon is on the side opposite of the tomb.
I admire and appreciate the attention you've given this most honorable post. That you are not only *not* American, but English is a great and holding cement to the respect that these Guards deserve.
Great video! I always wondered where they drew their soldiers from. Thank you!
This shit hits me right in the feels.
My cousin was a sentinel. He was in Gardens of Stone as well. I was in the Corps and was Color Sergeant for my Regiment as well as previously on Security Forces with "sensitive items". It is exhausting standing, marching and mentally draining. I can only imagine how gruelling this duty is. Much respect. Semper Fi.
DenseAlloy I was a line company 0311. I hated anything ceremonial. True grunt 🤣
airbomb34 I hear you. When I was on color guard I was at MCRD and I was happy perfectly happy hiding in the S3/S4 shops but I am 6'2 so I got volunteered. Luckily, that was the last time I had to do that before I retired. The happiest time I had was when I was a Lance Coolie assigned to small boat raid company and my platoon was the MSPF for the MEU. I was 0311 too, (obviously 0300 since I was a barracks baby, but I was in PI !) and I still think 0311 is the MOS that is a true love/hate thing. It sucks but it's also awesome. Semper Fi.
I am a Merchant Marine my Salute is to them. Thank you.
I would love to go see this again. I watched it once when I was in high school.