Hegseth and Staff Reprimanded at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
During a Veterans Day ceremony, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and his entourage were reprimanded by a guard for laughing at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
ARLINGTON, Nov 12: Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and his team were reprimanded by an Army guard while visiting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on Veterans Day. A video captured the incident, showing Hegseth and his staff laughing and posing for photos near the sacred site, prompting the sentinel to shout, “All visitors will maintain an atmosphere of silence and respect at all times.”
The event took place at Arlington National Cemetery, where the Tomb is considered a solemn memorial for unidentified soldiers from various conflicts, including World War I. The guard, part of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Regiment known as the “Old Guard,” has maintained a watch at the tomb since 1948.
Chief Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell commented that the soldier’s response was appropriate, emphasizing that Hegseth and the Department of Defense have consistently honored military sacrifices. He stated, “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.”
The reprimand occurred a day after Hegseth narrowly avoided impeachment in Congress, where accusations included overseeing illegal military actions. This adds to the scrutiny of Hegseth, especially following a tumultuous election for the Republican Party, which lost both chambers of Congress.
Reactions to the incident were swift. Some critics, including former Congressman Adam Kinzinger, labeled Hegseth’s actions as “truly abhorrent,” questioning his fitness for the defense secretary role. Kinzinger remarked on social media that laughing at such a memorial is unbecoming behavior for anyone, particularly a Secretary of Defense.
Democratic Representative Gwen Moore also criticized Hegseth, asserting that his behavior reflected a disregard for military respect. She stated, “He shows his contempt for our men and women in uniform by disrespecting the sanctity of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.”
The incident highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding Hegseth’s conduct in office, especially after a contentious period leading up to the elections. Challenges remain as President Donald Trump has continued to support Hegseth, referring to his efforts in the administration as commendable.