CommentsDisplaying kallen0611's 10 most recent comments.

• Photos of The Old Guard as They Watch Over the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier During Hurricane Irene

  August 28, 2011 at 2:08pm

  In reply to fabercastell.

  @fiber – They did make an exception. This has happened numerous times in the Old Guard’s noble history. In 2003 the Regimental Commander ordered the Guardsmen to seek protection from Hurricane Isabel. They did not. They disobeyed their order in order to prove their devotion and love for their fallen comrades. I believe this also occurred some time during JFK’s presidency. He personally gave permission to the Old Guard to retire their post. They refused.
  It is also important to remember that the Tomb of the Unknowns is not just for the 3 unidentified men interred there. The Tomb is a dedication to every man or woman who gave their lives in defense of their country and were unable to be identified afterwards.Therefore, to guard this Tomb is one of the highest honors anyone can be afforded the opportunity to have.
  It might be prudent for anyone with a negative opinion to reflect on what this duty represents before they practice their right to share their opinions. A right that was provided to them by those who fought for you.
  I don’t know whether or not you will ever understand what it means to sacrifice for others; especially on a national scale. I have deployed to Iraq twice and gained much appreciation for what we were trying to accomplish over there. It would be a shame to throw it all away because of a lack of tradition and honor. It is those things that keep us strong.
  Also, remember that they are volunteering to do this. It is no one’s choice but their own.