Tourists at times believe that they are entitled to explore every nook and cranny that catches their eye. As if they are above the rules, perhaps due to a sense of empowerment or entitlement stemming from being in an unfamiliar place. This sense of entitlement was evident when a woman decided to get up close and personal with a heavily guarded military tomb, crossing the barrier as if it were her duty and right.
Arlington National Cemetery, the hallowed ground that hosts the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, welcomes approximately four million visitors each year. While the majority of these visitors show respect and understanding towards the military procedures and the guards’ duties, there are a few who feel entitled to roam the cemetery as if it were their own property.
To maintain order and pay respects to the fallen, the Tomb Sentinels stand guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier every moment of their shift. This prestigious position demands that they patrol the area to not only honor the deceased but also protect the tomb from unruly visitors. In April 1948, following the end of World War II, the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment took on the solemn responsibility of guarding the tomb of a soldier who had sacrificed everything for the United States of America.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier attracts visitors who come to witness the ceremonial changing of the guard and marvel at the sentinels’ dedication and discipline. One such ceremony, the wreath-laying, invites two children to place a beautifully adorned wreath in front of the tomb. As soldiers salute the unknown soldier and the crowd observes the poignant display, it serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom.
However, one woman, dissatisfied with her position during the ceremony, decided to cross the barrier to get a closer view of the tomb.
Her intrusion did not go unnoticed, as the sentinel on duty swiftly responded with a firm command: “It is requested that all visitors stay behind the chain rails at all times!” Startled by the sentinel’s ferocity and dedication to his duty, the woman hastily retreated from the restricted area, chastened and reminded to respect the unknown soldier who had given his life in World War II.
As luck would have it, this extraordinary moment was captured on camera by a rule-abiding tourist, sparking a conversation about the sentinel’s response to the trespasser.
It serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting the sacrifices of those who fought for our freedom and the dedicated individuals who continue to honor their memory.
WATCH the video below for more details:
Sources: AWM, Wearethemighty, Wamu.org
Thomas Cooper