As we went down the stairs to where the Sentinels of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier make their uniform changes, relentlessly practice their precise routines, and check for perfection before going on duty, there was no question why this elite of the elite corps of guards exists. They do what all patriotic Americans wish we were capable of doing 24/7—never forget for one second what it means for the future of our democratic ideals that even one person pays the ultimate price for freedom’s sake. I looked over the large board on the wall in that small room where every name of every Guard was engraved (538 since 1926 I think…I wish I had been taking notes!), and I noticed something very interesting. On a few of those small nameplates, I only saw the word “revoked”. I asked why. The simple answer was that they had done something later on in life that had disgraced the Honor Guard and everything it stands for—to give the very best they can to honor the lives that have been lost. No time limit on that creed—could be 20, 30 years or more after they guarded the Tomb and they’re still held to the highest standards. No wonder that the wreath emblem these most meticulous Sentinels earn is among the rarest—if not the rarest—to be presented in the Military.
It was a singular privilege to witness that Changing of the Guard, together with LTC Tim Karcher—who had given his legs last year while serving—and his family, and COL David Sutherland whose Greywolf Brigade suffered more casualties than any other. They know firsthand the price of freedom, and I feel it vicariously through them.
Standing quietly throughout the ceremony, the only sound I heard other than the clicking of the Guard’s heels…was the stifled sob of an older gentleman standing with his family behind the red velvet rope a few feet from the Tomb. On Memorial Day, and every day of the year, I am so very proud of the Honor Guard that does not let a single second go by without always remembering. Many among us don’t have the luxury of forgetting…even for a second. With each precise step, the Honor Guard represents every American and the depth of our gratitude.