Do you know who guards the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Do you know who guards the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier? (Tomb of Unknowns)

On the two side panels are a total of six wreaths which are inverted. On the back side are the words: Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God. On the front side of the tomb is a woman in the middle which symbolizes Victory, on the right side is a man who stands for Valor, and on the left side is a woman which stands for Peace.

They are Men and Women who commit 2 years of their life to guard the tomb

The first six months of duty a guard cannot talk to anyone, nor watch TV.

They must live in a barracks UNDER the Tomb!

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

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 he hesitate after his about face to begin his return walk and why? 21 seconds, It alludes to the twenty-one gun salute.

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

Does he carry his rifle on the same shoulder all the time, and if not, why not? No, 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.

All off duty their time is spent studying the 175 notable people laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery. A guard must memorize who they are and where they are interred.

Hurricane Isabel September 2003 During winds that overturned vehicles and turned debris into projectiles… the measured step continued!

They pledge to not to swear in public for the rest of their lives!

They pledge to not drink any alcohol on or OFF duty for the rest of their lives

After 2 years, their only material reward is a wreath pin After 2 years, their only material reward is a wreath pin. They must obey the rules for the rest of their lives or give up the pin. Only 400 are presently worn!

It is about Commitment, Leadership, and OUR HOME!