POTD: First Snow of 2022 – Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Photo Of The Day: A tomb guard from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) walks the mat during a snow storm at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va. This happened on January 3, 2022.
From the website of The Society of the Honor Guard, on the subject of which firearms that have been and that are carried by the sentinels ( Source):
The weapons used by the Tomb Guard are more than just for show. These weapons are fully functional and are kept ready for use at all times. The weapon inspection conducted prior to the new Sentinel assuming the post, is a real inspection.
Over the years there have been many different types of weapons used by the Tomb Guards. The changes in weapons reflect the changes in the Army, however each weapon system is picked for good reasons.
Today the M14 rifle is the standard ceremonial weapon used by the 3d U.S. Infantry (The Old Guard) and is the current weapon carried by Tomb Guards.
Since the Beretta M9 pistols were retired – after over 11,000 days of service – the sentinels now carry the M17 Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Pistols made by SIG Sauer.
For more pictures, with less snow, from the Arlington National Cemetery please check “ M17 Pistol specially made for the Sentinels at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier” and “ NASA Day of Remembrance” articles.
Photos and caption source: U.S. Army, Elizabeth Fraser / Arlington National Cemetery.
Ex-Arctic Ranger. Competitive practical shooter and hunter with a European focus. Always ready to increase my collection of modern semi-automatics, optics, thermals and suppressors. TCCC Certified. Occasionaly seen in a 6x6 Bug Out Vehicle, always with a big smile.
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The whole tomb thing looks very solemn at first, but it's actually kinda...dumb. The guard just keeps on marching in the same partner like a NPC for hours and hours.
I watched a interview with one soldier who did this guard duty, dude clearly wasn't the sharpest tool in the shed but seemed hyped about all the solemnity.
But well, still better than hellfiring some marriage.
Thank God for these men that perform this duty.