As Sandy continues to bring harsh conditions across the East Coast, the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment's Tomb Guards have continued to maintain their watch over the Tomb of the Unknowns in Virginia's Arlington National Cemetery.
This isn't the Sentinel's first time experiencing a hurricane. As a matter of fact, for the very first time in history, they were given direct orders to seek shelter from Hurricane Isabel in 2003. With commitment, pride, and passion honoring those who dedicated their lives, they disobeyed those orders and continued on their steady 21-paced marched. In 2011, they were given the same option when Irene came ashore. And yet again, they refused to leave their post.
For those concerned, the soldiers aren't actually guarding the tomb unprotected once the cemetery closes due to extreme weather. Instead of their traditional dress uniform, the Old Guard wears a camouflage uniform that is yet to be seen by the public.
The tomb itself was erected in 1921 on Veterans Day following World War I. It was first guarded by a civilian in 1925 before the military took over in 1926. The first 24-hour post started in July 2, 1937 while the all-weather watch was only delegated to the 3rd Infantry in 1948. Since then, the tomb has been continuously guarded every second of every single day regardless of the weather.
As Sandy draws nearer, expect that these dedicated Tomb Guards will continue to pay homage to those unknown, fallen warriors.
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