Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

[Bills Custom Calls]

Lets see how much you know

How many steps does the guard take during his walk across the tomb of the Unknown soldier and why?

Why are his gloves wet?

How often are the guards changed?

What are the physical traits of the guard limited to?

I will reveal the answers to the questions later



In 2003 as Hurricane Isabelle was approaching Washington,  DC, our
US Senate/House took 2 days off with anticipation of the storm. On the ABC Evening news, it was reported that because of the dangers from the
Hurricane, the military members assigned the duty of guarding the Tomb of The Unknown Soldier were given permission to suspend the assignment.


Did the Guards stay on duty through the storm or not

[msmith]

I know all of the answers but I cheated so I will refrain from posting them so others can try.

I must say, that to research the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is interesting and put a lump in my throat. God bless those who have and are serving in spite of what the pigs in Washington are doing to our country. Thank You!

Good post Bill.

[Carolina Coyote]

Been there quite a few times, always inspiring and they do it 24 / 7 rain shine sleet or snow. know the answers but will not tell. cc

[Hawks Feather]

I know the answers too, but it is great that you posted it.  If you have never see the guards at the tomb you need to go sometime.  When you are there make sure you stay for the changing of the guard.

Jerry

[Bills Custom Calls]

This is kinda interesting

Some of the questions I posted were asked on Jeopardy and the contestants couldn't answer them

[Bopeye]

The tomb of the unknown was a very humbling experience when I was there too. When the sergeant comes out and says, "You will remain QUIET for the changing of the guard"!
Something in me was stirred and I felt very solemn as if the ghosts of those men laying there were amongst us and watching to see if we would honor their sacrifice.

BTW, I got all those things in an email not too long ago, so do you want me to answer them Bill?   

[Bills Custom Calls]

That would be CHEATING now wouldn't it BOP 

[Bills Custom Calls]

1. How many steps does the guard take during his walk across the tomb of the Unknown soldier and why?



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

2. How long does he hesitate after his about face to begin his return walk and why?

21 seconds for the same reason as answer number 1

   



3. Why are his gloves wet?

His gloves are moistened to prevent his losing his grip on the rifle.   

4. Does he carry his rifle on the same shoulder all the time
And, if not, why not?

He carries the rifle on the shoulder away from the tomb. After his march across the path, he executes an about face and moves the rifle to the outside shoulder.

   



5. How often are the guards changed?

Guards are changed every thirty minutes,
twenty-four hours a day, 365 days a year.





6. What are the physical traits of the guard limited to?

For a person to apply for guard duty at the tomb, he must be
Between 5' 10' and 6' 2' tall and his waist size cannot exceed 30.
   
They must commit 2 years of life to guard the tomb, live in a barracks under the tomb, and cannot drink any alcohol on or off duty for the rest of their lives. They cannot swear in public for the
rest of their lives and cannot disgrace the uniform or the tomb in any way.
   
After two years, the guard is given a wreath pin that is worn on
Their lapel signifying they served as guard of the tomb. There are only
400 presently worn. The guard must obey these rules for the rest of their
Lives or give up the wreath pin.
   
The shoes are specially made with very thick soles to keep the heat and cold from their feet. There are metal heel plates that extend to the  top of the shoe in order to make the loud click as they come to a halt.

There are no wrinkles, folds or lint on the uniform. Guards dress for duty
In front of a full-length mirror.

The first six months of duty a guard cannot talk to anyone nor
Watch TV. All off duty time is spent studying the 175 notable people laid
To rest in Arlington National C emetery.

A guard must memorize who they are
And where they are interred. Among the notables are:
   
President Taft,
   Joe Lewis {the boxer}
   Medal of Honor winner Audie Murphy, the most
Decorated soldier of WWII of Hollywood fame.

Every guard spends five hours a day getting his uniforms ready for
Guard duty.



ETERNAL REST GRANT THEM, O LORD AND LET PERPETUAL LIGHT SHINE UPON THEM.

In 2003 as Hurricane Isabelle was approaching Washington,  DC, our
US Senate/House took 2 days off with anticipation of the storm. On the ABC Evening news, it was reported that because of the dangers from the
Hurricane, the military members assigned the duty of guarding the Tomb of The Unknown Soldier were given permission to suspend the assignment. They respectfully declined the offer, saying 'No way, Sir!'

Soaked to the skin,
Marching in the pelting rain of a tropical storm, they said that guarding
The Tomb was not just an assignment, it was the highest honor that can be
Afforded to a serviceperson. The tomb has been patrolled continuously,
24/7, since 1930.

[FinsnFur]

Wow, interesting stuff.
Now you got me wanting to do like Mikey and go find more.

[Carolina Coyote]

These guys are true Blooded Americans right down to the bone. I have been there when some child crossed the rope, you know children but let me tell you the guard does not miss anything and gives a very stern warning and you know he means business., by all means if ever visiting Washington go to Arlington, It will make you proud to be an American. Bill this was a very good post. cc 

[bambam]

Good post Bill.