United States of America

Hegseth and Aides Rebuked at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Is this a common occurrence at the war memorial or does this deserve a public apology?

4 hours ago·Updated 44 minutes ago

Hegseth and Aides Rebuked at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Story

Above: Pete Hegseth (R) and his wife Jennifer during a ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery on Nov. 11. Image credit: Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

The Facts

A U.S. Army sentinel guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier rebuked Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and his entourage after they broke decorum at the site in Arlington National Cemetery during Veteran's Day on Wednesday.
The Guardian
Reuters
The incident, captured on video, showed Hegseth and his group posing for pictures and talking before laughter is heard, prompting the reprimand from the soldier. "All visitors will maintain an atmosphere of silence and respect at all times," he said.
c-span.org on Youtube
BBC News
It took place after the annual ceremony at Arlington that was attended by President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. In the footage, Hegseth was joined by his wife Jennifer and a number of aides; including chief of staff Ricky Buria, deputy chief of staff Patrick Weaver and Tami Radabaugh, a senior adviser and deputy assistant.
The Guardian
USA Today
The site, one of the country's most sacred war memorials, originally marked the resting place for unidentified soldiers killed in World War I before coming to house the unknown dead from future conflicts.
Arlington National Cemetery
BBC News
It is watched over by the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, known as "the Old Guard," on a 24-hour-per-day basis.
Arlington National Cemetery
BBC News
Responding to requests for comment, Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said: "The Secretary and the entire Department have always honored — and will always honor — the sacrifices our military men and women have made to keep America safe. While commemorating this solemn day, a soldier correctly and respectfully reminded everyone to maintain decorum."
CBS News
CNN

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The Spin

Pro-establishment narrative

It's not unusual for sentinels to reprimand visitors at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where strict solemnity is expected to be maintained. Interviews with soldiers guarding the site indicate that they in fact need to do it around two or three times a day.

CBS News

Establishment-critical narrative

This is so typical of Hegseth. He and his team are supposed to be paying tribute but instead, disrespected the site and made it all about themselves. They ought to apologize for this shameful incident, but no doubt one won't be given.

USA Today