Duty, Honor, Country

Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier:

The guard is supposed to take exactly 21 steps in his walk around the tomb. The reason for this is an allusion to the 21 gun salute, which happens to be the highest honor that can be bestowed on a military or foreign person.

When he has to turn around and start his return walk he must pause for 21 seconds. The reason for this is the same as the first.

His gloves must be wet, and this is done, in order to prevent his gun from falling down from his gloved hands.

The guards are changed every half an hour, for 24 hours a day, for each and every day of the year.

The guard walking the tomb must always carry the rifle on his outside shoulder, or the shoulder facing the other side of the tomb.

The guards have to commit 2 years of their lives to guarding the tomb.

They have to live in a barracks directly under the tomb.

Their height must be between 5 feet 10 inches and 6 feet 2 inches. Their waist size must not be more than 30 inches.

They cannot drink alcohol, swear in public, or disgrace the uniform in any way for the rest of their lives.

For the first 6 months the guard cannot talk to anyone, or watch TV.

Once 2 years of service are up, they are given a wreath pin that signifies their duty.