Guard reprimands Defense Secretary Hegseth's party for laughing at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and members of his entourage were publicly admonished by an on-duty guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier after they were heard laughing and taking selfies during a Veterans Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. The guard halted his patrol and reminded visitors, "All visitors will maintain an atmosphere of silence and respect at all times!"

Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said the department respects service members and noted that the guard's intervention was appropriate. > "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," Parnell said. > "While commemorating this solemn day, a soldier correctly and respectfully reminded everyone to maintain decorum."

The ceremony was attended by President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. Hegseth was photographed with his wife, Jennifer, chief of staff Ricky Buria, deputy chief of staff Patrick Weaver and senior adviser Tami Radabaugh.

The incident occurred amid ongoing political controversy surrounding Hegseth, who faced an impeachment vote in the House that was defeated 211–204. Lawmakers cited traffic congestion and security procedures as reasons for missing the vote. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said the effort to hold Hegseth accountable would continue.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, guarded continuously by the 3rd Infantry Regiment since 1948, remains a highly protected site, and it is not yet known whether any disciplinary action will be taken against those who were warned.