All proper precautions were taken to ensure the safety of the Sentinels while accomplishing their mission. “It was erroneously reported that during Hurricane Isabel, the Sentinels were ordered to abandon their posts for shelter and that they refused. It is true that tomb sentinels are expected to observe their posts in spite of inclement weather. Line 8 of the Sentinel’s Creed refers to persevering through the “discomfort of the elements” ( here ). But the Society’s website clarifies that the “accomplishment of the mission and welfare of the Soldier” is never put at risk: The guard then paces 21 steps to the north, turns, and repeats the entire process until he is relieved.” ( here ). He then turns 90-degrees and faces east for exactly 21 seconds. Afterward, he then turns north for another 21 seconds which is followed by a crisp shoulder arms movement where the guard places his rifle on the shoulder nearest to the spectators to symbolize that he stands between the tomb and any outside threat. “ Tomb Sentinel marches 21 steps across a black mat passing the grave markers of each of the unknowns.

What is true, however, is that the changing of the tomb sentinel is executed every 30 minutes with clock-like precision: The National Arlington Cemetery states that this practice has been in effect since April 6, 1948, while the Society of the Honor Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier maintains that the 24-hour watch was implemented on July 1, 1937. It is true that the sentinels’ gloves are wet to improve the grip on the rifle. Although they do not execute an “about face” (180-degree turn) as the post indicates, it is also true that the sentinels always carry the rifle on the outside shoulder ( /society/faq/ ).Īlthough the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is guarded for 24 hours a day, 365 days a year with no exception, there is some dispute over how long this has been the case. These focus on changing of the guard, uniform preparation, weapons and historical knowledge, among other elements ( here ). Once picked for duty, the sentinels are subjected to rigorous daily inspections, to make sure their living quarters are tidy and their uniforms “immaculate”.

The training and selection processes for the tomb sentinels have strict guidelines. According to the website of the Society of the Honor Guard, the training cycle alone consists of five exhaustive tests over 6 to 12 months.

Tomb of unknown soldier