2021 Memorial Day “Hoist” @ Chapter One

This year’s Hoist holds special significance as it coincides with the Centennial of the burial of the World War I Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery in what is now known as the “Tomb of the Unknowns”. That Tomb remained unguarded until 1925 when a civilian guard would be present during the day, the United States Army took over the role as permanent Guards of the Tomb on March 25, 1926 and has remained the only branch to do so ever since.

From 1926 until 1948, Soldiers from seven different detachments provided guards for the Tomb. Then, on April 6, of 1948, 1st Battalion, 3d U.S. Infantry (The Old Guard) which is the oldest Infantry unit in the U.S. Army dating back to 1784 took over guard duties and have provided them ever since.

The modern-day experience of witnessing Tomb Guards as they fulfill their duty 24 hours a day, 365 days a year in all weather and circumstances has become more than simple guard duty, but an opportunity to demonstrate the deep and never-ending value to honor and protect those that gave their all. The Old Guard ‘Tomb Sentinels’ earn the privilege to stand this sacred duty and the “Tomb Guard Badge” is the ‘Only’ Badge in the entire United States Military that may be revoked at any time regardless of the status (Active, Former, Retired) of the Sentinel. Tomb Guards serve for “Life”, even after they have taken their final “Walk” and their military service formally concludes.

Join us as we personally experience in his own words what it means to be a Tomb Guard as we are joined by one of the “Founding Fathers” of the modern Tomb Guards, Alfred “Al” E. Savard. Al guarded the Tomb from 1956 to 1957 and as a Lifetime Member of the “Society of the Honor Guard – Tomb of the Unknown Soldier” is well-prepared to share his direct experience as well as provide historical context to the Tomb and what it means to protect those contained within.

There are very few who have ever carried the responsibility of guarding the Tomb. Here is our chance to learn from one of their own on this most somber, yet appropriate of days.

Join us…