Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a monument dedicated to the soldiers who died in combat but whose remains could not be identified. The monument is a reminder of the nation’s debt to military personnel who sacrificed their lives in the name of freedom. One of the most notable features of the monument is the guard who stands watch over it all hours of the day, every day. In this article, we will explore why the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is guarded, its historical context, symbolism and honor attached to the duty, the rituals and ceremony, personal stories of guards, and a broader global perspective.
Historical Context
Congress approved the burial of an unidentified soldier from World War I in Arlington National Cemetery in 1921. This soldier’s remains represented all those who died fighting for their country but whose identities are unknown. The tomb of the unknown soldier was established to honor the sacrifices made by these soldiers and give recognition to their service. Later, unidentified soldiers from other wars were also interred at the tomb.
The monument serves a dual purpose of honoring the dead and providing closure to their loved ones. The families of those soldiers who lost their lives in service but whose remains were never found, have a place of remembrance to visit.
The grave is also a symbol of national unity, representing all the soldiers who died fighting for the country, despite their diverse backgrounds. The tomb remains an iconic monument that symbolizes the nation’s gratitude for its servicemen and women.
Symbolism and Honor
The guard is an important presence at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The guard represents the respect and recognition that the country gives to its fallen soldiers. It is also a symbolic representation of the nation’s trust in its military personnel to honor, respect, and protect the memory of the unknown soldiers.
The guard also signifies the dedication, courage, and respect of every service member. The tomb is a reminder to every American citizen that the freedom and safety of the country come at a high cost. By guarding the tomb, soldiers make sure that their fallen comrades’ memories are honored in the best possible way.
The Rituals and Ceremony
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is guarded 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year. The guards go through rigorous training to learn how to perform the guard duty, including the precise steps they take during their shifts. Their outfits are of significant importance, with the emphasis on the white gloves, shoes shined to perfection, and their impeccable dress uniforms.
The Sacred 21 Steps is another important part of the guard’s duty. Guards take precisely 21 steps across the black mat in front of the tomb, symbolizing the 21-gun salute, a traditional military send-off given to the military personnel who die in the field of duty. Guards make sure to keep their guns pointed outward, away from the tomb, to show the final respect to the unknown soldier by never turning their back.
The Changing of the Guard is another significant ritual in which guards who are on duty change places, taken part every hour from 6 AM until 9 PM. It includes a meticulously choreographed routine that lasts around 15 minutes. Visitors watching the ceremony are encouraged to remain respectful and silent.
Personal Stories
The guards come from the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, also known as The Old Guard. They experience significant physical and mental demands while doing their duty; they have to stand at attention for extended periods of time, participate in hours of inspection and honing their skills daily. Guards who have experienced the duty describe it as one of their most honorable and fulfilling assignments.
The guard’s duty is challenging but equally rewarding. Guards maintain the tomb’s dignity and guard the symbolic recognition of the nation’s unreturned heroes.
Global Perspective
Several countries also have similar monuments and traditions to honor their military personnel who lost their lives. These ceremonies serve different purposes, depending on the culture, history, and religious beliefs of the country. However, the basic principles of respect, honor, and remembrance remain the same. Some of the most notable memorials include the Canadian National Memorial in France’s Vimy Ridge and London’s Cenotaph.
In Canada, Remembrance Day is celebrated every year on November 11, to remember the contribution of military personnel in past wars. The day holds significant importance as it coincides with the Armistice Day marking the end of World War I.
Conclusion
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a significant representation of the sacrifices made by military personnel in the line of duty. The guard’s duty is a testament to the honor, respect, and recognition shown for the fallen soldiers. Understanding the significance behind the rituals and ceremonies associated with the guard’s duty reminds us that freedom comes at a cost and honors the brave men and women who have given their lives for their country.