Army guard rebukes Defence Secretary Hegseth for breach of decorum at Arlington
During a Veterans Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, an Army sentinel warned Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and his party to observe silence and respect after they were seen laughing and talking near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, his wife and senior advisers were reminded by an Army guard to keep a silent and respectful atmosphere while visiting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier during a Veterans Day observance at Arlington National Cemetery. A video of the event shows the group laughing and talking while posing for photographs, prompting the sentinel on duty to step forward and say, "All visitors will maintain an atmosphere of silence and respect at all times."
Cemetery regulations require visitors to speak quietly and avoid disorderly conduct at the site, which houses the remains of an unidentified World War I soldier and is guarded around the clock by the 3rd Infantry Regiment since 1948.
"While commemorating this solemn day, a soldier correctly and respectfully reminded everyone to maintain decorum," Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said in a statement. "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."
President Trump, speaking at the ceremony, thanked service members and highlighted his administration's actions in the conflict with Iran, claiming a decisive victory and praising Hegseth's performance as defence secretary.