My friends,
Today’s entry is on a more serious note. Let us remember that freedom is not free. It comes with a price. As this weekend begins, be sure to remember all our veterans who gave their lives in service to our great country. There are those who sacrificed everything they had to ensure the freedoms we have today. Let us never forget their sacrifices or courage in the face of unspeakable dangers.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery
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It is considered one of the highest honors to serve as a ceremonial guard at the Tomb of the “Unknowns”. It is a known fact that less than 20 percent of all who volunteer are accepted for training. And of those who are accepted, only a fraction of these pass the training to become full-fledged tomb guards. The sentinels do not wear their rank insignia on their uniforms so that they do not outrank the “Unknowns”, whatever their rank may have been.
The Relief Commander and Assistant Relief Commander do wear the insignia of their rank. However, this only occurs when changing the guard. They wear a separate uniform when they actually guard the “unknowns”.
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There is a meticulous ritual the guard follows when watching over the graves
1. The soldier walks 21 steps across the tomb. This alludes to the 21-gun salute, which is the highest honor given to any military or foreign dignitary in America. His weapon is always on the shoulder opposite the tomb.
2. On the 21st step, the soldier turns and faces the tomb for 21 seconds.
3. The soldier then turns to face the other way across the tomb and changes his weapon to the outside shoulder.
4. After 21 seconds, the first step is repeated.
These guards are there 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. No matter what the weather, they are there, ALWAYS.
Memorial Day is a day to remember and honor all who serve and all who paid the ultimate price. May we all take time this weekend and on Monday, to reflect on their courage and strength and give thanks for their service to our country. May we be like the guards who stand ever vigilant at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers, and let us never forget.
Memorial Day is more than just a day. It is a part of our country’s history that should never be forgotten. I have included a link that explains the history of Memorial Day. Please take the time to read it. And take the time to thank a Veteran and all of our armed forces for all they do!
To all our service men and women out there: THANK YOU for all you do to keep this country safe! May we never forget the sacrifices of our fallen brethren!
God bless our Veterans and God bless America!
And that’s the scratch!
C.H. Ickens
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