What It Takes To Be A Sentinel At The Tomb Of The Unknown Solider | Boot Camp

Key Concepts

• Tomb Guard Identification Badge
• Sentinel
• Arlington National Cemetery
• Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
• Uniform Inspection Test
• Attrition Rate
• Weapon Strength Test
• Patent Leather Shoes
• Heel Clickers
• 21 Steps/21 Seconds/21 Gun Salute
• Deficiencies/Gigs
• Height Requirement
• Feminine's Belt
• Standing at Attention

The Path to Becoming a Tomb Guard Sentinel

This video details the rigorous and exclusive process of becoming a Tomb Guard Sentinel at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. The role is one of the most difficult to attain in the army, with only 735 Tomb Guard badges ever awarded, making it the second rarest badge in the army.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

• Significance: The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier honors unidentified American service members who died in combat. It was dedicated in 1921 and contains the unidentifiable remains of three American soldiers from World War I, World War II, and the Korean War.
• Visitor Numbers: Approximately 4 million people visit Arlington National Cemetery annually, with many paying their respects at the Tomb.
• Guard Duty: Tomb guards watch the tomb 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, in all weather conditions, including extreme cold, heat, and rain.

The Sentinel Selection and Training Process

• Exclusivity: Becoming a Sentinel is an extremely difficult process. Private Joshua Beckman, a 19-year-old, is shown undergoing the uniform inspection test, one of five tests required to earn the badge.
• Training Duration and Attrition: Soldiers train for 6 to 9 months with a staggering 90% attrition rate. Those accepted initially guard the tomb on a temporary basis while training and testing.
• Evaluation Criteria: Tomb guards are evaluated on their performance guarding the tomb, extensive knowledge of the tomb, and the immaculate condition of their uniforms.
• Sergeant Johnston's Perspective: Sergeant Kaye Johnston, the only woman currently serving as a Sentinel and one of only eight to ever earn the badge, reflects on the impact of her role, particularly on young women in the military and visitors. She emphasizes the difficulty of the training but also the daily honor of serving.

Rigorous Standards and Technical Details

• Uniform Inspection: The uniform inspection test is incredibly detailed, with active Sentinels inspecting every aspect, using tools like micrometers to measure down to the 64th of an inch. Private Beckman faces this test, with Sergeant Johnston as his grader.
• Perfection as the Standard: The mantra at the Tomb Guard quarters is "standard is perfection." While tangible perfection is impossible, the goal is to get as close as possible.
• Uniform Maintenance: A significant amount of time is spent on uniform maintenance, including sewing, pressing, and shining shoes.
  • Shoe Polishing: Patent leather shoes require multiple coats of polish (Kiwi for build coats, Saphir Black for shine coats) to achieve the desired finish. The sun and heat can degrade the polish, necessitating constant upkeep.
  • Heel Clickers: Special metal pieces called "heel clickers" are attached to the shoes. These are colored with a Sharpie to appear black from the bottom and are used to create a smooth, gliding walk.
• Weapon Strength Test: Trainees undergo a weapon strength test to build endurance for holding the nearly 12 lb rifle properly, even if they are physically fit from gym training. This test focuses on developing the specific small muscles needed for rifle control.
• Marching Protocol: The Sentinel marches 21 steps down a black mat, faces east for 21 seconds, and then marches 21 steps back. The number 21 signifies the 21-gun salute, a distinguished military honor. The precision of hitting specific "blocks" on the mat with each step is crucial, especially for shorter individuals.

Challenges and Setbacks

• Uniform Test Failure: Private Beckman experiences a setback during his uniform inspection test. After standing at attention for nearly 35 minutes of the 40-minute test, he begins to feel faint and dizzy.
• Test Cancellation: Due to his condition, the test is canceled, as he cannot meet the requirement of standing at attention for the entire duration. This is considered a major deficiency.
• Consequences of Failure: Failing the uniform inspection means the trainee cannot perform duties as a Tomb Guard for the rest of the day and must perform other tasks, such as moving chains.
• Resilience and Re-testing: Despite the failure, Beckman expresses a commitment to learning from the experience and returning for his next test. He acknowledges the importance of preparing his body as well as his uniform.
• Second Chance and Success: 40 days later, Beckman gets a second chance and passes his uniform test, allowing him to continue his journey as a Sentinel.

Additional Details and Requirements

• Height Requirement: There is a height requirement of 5'10" for males and 5'9" for females, intended to present a strong image of fit and disciplined soldiers.
• Sunglasses: Sentinels wear sunglasses not only for eye protection but also to discreetly scan their surroundings without moving their heads, ensuring no visitors are causing disturbances.
• Visitor Admonishment: Tomb guards are authorized to admonish visitors who break rules, such as stepping over chains or being loud.
• Revocation of Badge: The Tomb Guard badge can be revoked if a Sentinel dishonors it through their conduct, even after their army service, potentially due to criminal convictions.
• Weapon Status: The status of the weapon (loaded or unloaded) while guarding the tomb is kept confidential for security reasons, to deter any attempts to breach the plaza.
• Feminine's Belt: Sentinels wear a "feminine's belt" instead of a traditional belt, which also provides back support.
• Endurance: The ability to stand at attention for extended periods is a critical requirement, as demonstrated by Beckman's test cancellation.

Conclusion

The journey to becoming a Tomb Guard Sentinel is characterized by extreme dedication, meticulous attention to detail, and unwavering resilience. The process demands perfection in appearance, knowledge, and bearing, with a high rate of attrition reflecting the elite nature of this solemn duty. The story of Private Beckman highlights both the immense challenges and the ultimate reward of achieving this prestigious role.