why is the tomb of the unknown soldier guarded

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier ( at Arlington National Cemetery is guarded continuously to prevent desecration and maintain a solemn, respectful atmosphere for unidentified U.S. service members who died in war. The site has been protected 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, without interruption since July 1937.

Core Reasons for the Guard

• Preventing Desecration. When the World War I Unknown was first buried in 1921, the tomb sat flat at ground level without a guard. Because of the scenic view overlooking Washington, D.C., some visitors walked on the monument or used it as a picnic area.
• Enforcing Solemnity. Sentinels actively ensure visitors remain quiet and respectful near the grave. They will verbally halt their patrol to reprimand anyone talking loudly, laughing, or crossing the barriers.
• Honoring Unidentified Service Members. The constant watch serves as a living tribute to every American service member who made the ultimate sacrifice without returning home or being identified.

History of the Watch

• 1925 Civilian Watch. Officials posted the first civilian watchman in November 1925 to stop visitors from climbing or picnicking on the tomb.
• 1926 Military Guard. The U.S. Army took over guard duties in March 1926 during cemetery operating hours.
• 1937 Continuous Watch. On July 2, 1937, the watch expanded to a permanent 24/7 operation that has never stopped, even during hurricanes, blizzards, or terrorist attacks.
• 1948 The Old Guard. Since April 1948, volunteer sentinels from the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (“The Old Guard”) have carried out the duty.

Symbolism in the Routine

• The 21-Step Patrol. The sentinel marches exactly 21 steps down the mat behind the tomb, turns, faces east for 21 seconds, turns north for 21 seconds, and repeats the pattern. The number 21 represents the 21-gun salute, the highest military honor given to dignitaries and fallen heroes.
• Changing of the Guard. A formal inspection and relief ceremony takes place every 30 minutes during the summer months (April through September) and every hour during the winter (October through March).