50th Anniversary of the Tomb Guards

              Statement on the 50th Anniversary of the Tomb Guards
at
Arlington National Cemetery
by Senator Chuck Hagel
April 2, 1998
Mr. President, I want to take a moment to recognize a very special group of Americans,
the Arlington National Cemetery Tomb Guards of the Third United States Infantry. The Tomb
Guards this year mark their 50th anniversary - half a century of dedicated service to the
American heroes who rest at Arlington. ·
The dedicated and devoted men and women of the Tomb Guards stand watch over the
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier 24 hours a day, seven days a week, regardless of weather.
Arlington's sacred ground holds many of America's heroes, but the unknown soldiers deserve
special honor. They made the ultimate sacrifice to preserve America's freedom, and they died in
anonymity- soldiers, as inscribed on their headstones, "Known but to God."
Since 1948, soldiers from the "Old Guard," the Third United States Infantry, have kept
watch at this most special place in Arlington National Cemetery. Only soldiers of the highest
character and standards, with the greatest integrity and professional skill, are selected to serve
with the Tomb Guards. These men and women are the best of the best. The competition is keen.
As young people across America search for role models, they need look no further than
this group of dedicated professionals who honor the sacrifice of all who have fallen for freedom.
I salute the Tomb Guards on their fifty years of dedicated service to America's heroes and wish
them well as they continue their devotion to duty. America is grateful for their service.
Thank you, Mr. President. I yield the floor.