US defence secretary Pete Hegseth was told by a guard to maintain silence at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier after his group was seen laughing during a Veterans Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.
Video footage shows the sentinel guard shouting “visitors will maintain an atmosphere of silence and respect at all times” at Hegseth and his group after the wreath-laying ceremony. Hegseth had been seen chatting and posing for a photograph on the steps of the tomb with his wife Jennifer, chief of staff Ricky Buria, deputy chief of staff Patrick Weaver, and senior adviser Tami Radabaugh.
Pentagon Response
Chief Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said in a statement: “The secretary and the entire department have always honoured – and will always honour – the sacrifices our military men and women have made to keep America safe. While commemorating this solemn day, a soldier correctly and respectfully reminded everyone to maintain decorum.”
Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance also laid a wreath and gave speeches at the service, which was held to mark Veterans Day. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier marks the resting place of a US soldier killed in World War I.
Guard Duties and Visitor Rules
An army sentinel from the 3rd US Infantry Regiment has stood guard around the tomb around the clock since 1948, performing both a ceremonial role and reminding guests to observe strict silence at all times. According to the US Army relief commanders, sentinels typically issue verbal reminders to crowds two or three times a day, often to visitors unaware of how loudly their voices carry across the marble square. Other common faux pas by visitors include stepping over barriers for photos, which is forbidden.
Political Context
The incident follows days of mounting political trouble for Hegseth, who faces impeachment proceedings in Congress and speculation that Trump is planning to replace him as defence secretary over a lack of progress in the Iran war. Earlier this week, outgoing Republican representative for Kentucky Thomas Massie formally introduced eight articles of impeachment in the House of Representatives – accusing Hegseth of launching an unauthorised war in Iran, executing unlawful military operations in Venezuela, and weakening Pentagon safeguards meant to minimise civilian casualties in conflicts overseas.
Hegseth rejected the claims as a “lie” and “slander” against members of the US military who had served on the missions.
