The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is the most hallowed ground in our National Cemetery.
Arlington, Virginia was the home of General Robert E. Lee. In retribution for Lee leading the Army of Northern Virginia in rebellion against the Union General of the Army Winfield Scott ordered that Union dead be buried on the plantation. “So that is be an internal reminder of Lee’s treason.”, said Scott. In 1882 The federal government finally designated Arlington has the National cemetery.
Since 1937, The Third Infantry Regiment at Fort Myer has the responsibility for guarding the tombs. Read more about the Tombs history here.
A guard has been posted on the Tombs 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year since 1921. There have been no exceptions. While posting of the sentry conducted with ceremony and sentry’s precise movements are steeped in tradition, the sentries do in fact guard the tomb.
What you don’t know is they will react to the slightest provocation. Yes, their weapons are loaded.
Do not test them.
This is the entire Changing of the Guard Ceremony.