If you have never been, if you get a chance, you should check out the Changing of the Guard. The guy on the right is the Sargent in Charge, who has inspected the weapon and uniform of the soldier coming on duty, and in just a moment or so, there will only be one soldier on duty. It is really something to see...very solemn.
I've been there one time, during high school. I didn't grasp it at the time. There is a meaning behind each action the guard takes. Every move, every pause has a specific reason. It is very quiet and solemn which equated to boring in my 16 year old brain. I'd like to go back and knock some sense into my teenage self, and I would love to go to D.C. again and see the monuments and museums. I'd read up on what the guard does and why before I go again.
The Sentinel’s Creed is the Tomb Guard standard. The 99 words of the creed captures the true meaning of their duty. You will often hear the words “Line 6″ proudly uttered by Tomb Guards as they converse with each other or with their chain of command.
The Sentinel’s Creed
My dedication to this sacred duty
is total and whole-hearted.
In the responsibility bestowed on me
never will I falter.
And with dignity and perseverance
my standard will remain perfection.
Through the years of diligence and praise
and the discomfort of the elements,
I will walk my tour in humble reverence
to the best of my ability.
[It is he who commands the respect I protect,
his bravery that made us so proud.] line 6
Surrounded by well meaning crowds by day,
alone in the thoughtful peace of night,
this soldier will in honored glory rest
under my eternal vigilance.
- Simon 1971
@skipt07 thank you for also sharing this. I wonder, is it possible to see the changing at night, after the sun has gone down, or do they shut down access to the cemetery?
March 29th, 2024
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The Sentinel’s Creed is the Tomb Guard standard. The 99 words of the creed captures the true meaning of their duty. You will often hear the words “Line 6″ proudly uttered by Tomb Guards as they converse with each other or with their chain of command.
The Sentinel’s Creed
My dedication to this sacred duty
is total and whole-hearted.
In the responsibility bestowed on me
never will I falter.
And with dignity and perseverance
my standard will remain perfection.
Through the years of diligence and praise
and the discomfort of the elements,
I will walk my tour in humble reverence
to the best of my ability.
[It is he who commands the respect I protect,
his bravery that made us so proud.] line 6
Surrounded by well meaning crowds by day,
alone in the thoughtful peace of night,
this soldier will in honored glory rest
under my eternal vigilance.
- Simon 1971