During the Veterans Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, a US Army sentinel stepped forward to remind a group—including Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and his wife—of the solemnity required at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The guard’s reminder, “All visitors will maintain an atmosphere of silence and respect at all times,” was captured on video and later praised by Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell.
Parnell highlighted that the soldier “correctly and respectfully reminded everyone to maintain decorum” and that the Department of Defence has always honored the sacrifices of military personnel. In recognition of the guard’s conduct, Hegseth presented the sentinel with a Joint Service Commendation Medal on Thursday.
Specialist Thomas Iglesias, the guard in question, has been part of the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment’s 24‑hour watch over the tomb since 1948. The regiment routinely reminds visitors to keep noise to a minimum and to avoid disorderly conduct, a practice that has become a familiar part of the cemetery’s etiquette.
Hegseth praised the guard on X, saying, “We love soldiers. We love standards. Well done, Specialist.” The incident underscores the importance of reverence at the nation’s most sacred war memorial and the role of military personnel in preserving its dignity.
Source: BBC World
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