An image of a U.S. Army soldier, a Tomb Sentinel from the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (better known as “The Old Guard”), placing a small American flag at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier during a severe thunderstorm in Washington, D.C., has garnered significant attention, especially leading up to Memorial Day. The photo and the story behind it perfectly encapsulate the dedication and solemnity associated with the holiday.
The thunderstorm struck on a Thursday as members of The Old Guard were carrying out their annual tradition of planting flags at each grave within Arlington National Cemetery. Despite the intensity of the storm, with thunder and heavy rain, one sentinel remained steadfast in his duty.
According to a post on The Old Guard’s Facebook page, the sentinel approached the Tomb of the Unknowns with U.S. flags in hand, exhibiting “extraordinary displays of discipline and dedication to duty.” The post continued, “As thunder boomed nearby and rains poured over the area, the Tomb Sentinel pierced through the elements with breath-taking precision as only a person with uncompromised military bearing would.”
The sentinel knelt and placed the flags in honor of the Unknowns. The Facebook post emphasized the profound impact of the moment, stating that for those who witnessed it, it was “jaw-dropping.” It further added, “Humans have their limits, but The Old Guard has yet to meet theirs.” The sentinel was later identified in a comment on the post as Tyler McKee, according to WTHR-TV.
The severe thunderstorm that day caused power outages to thousands of homes in the D.C. area and downed numerous trees, as reported by WUSA-TV. While some homes sustained severe damage, the mission of The Old Guard continued uninterrupted, showcasing their unwavering commitment to honoring the fallen, regardless of the conditions. This act of dedication truly captures the spirit of Memorial Day.
The dedication of the Old Guard serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by service members and the importance of honoring their memory, even amidst challenging circumstances. Their unwavering commitment to duty embodies the values of service and sacrifice that define Memorial Day.