Fan fact: The Guard of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Identification badge (worn by all current and former guards of the tomb) is one of the rarest decorations in the entire American military. Right up there in rarity with the U.S. Astronaut badge and the Military Horse Identification badge.
@@tioy3442 How it works is if you're in the military the branch you're in basically leases you out to NASA. You can be Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marines and become an astronaut though I'm not sure about the requirements you have to meet though I toyed with the idea when I was an Airman.
Wait, you mean the actual one unknown soldier that was buried there. My mistake, I don't know why I thought you meant every unknown kia soldier since then... You're right though, would be pretty crazy to have been that one guy.
I've witnessed the changing of the guard. And to say that it was stoic is an understatement. The pure reverence of the guards and the individuals watching was palpable
@@sgtjacques4172 I agree 100%...maybe the liberal folks would understand that it's more than a flag. It represents the sacrifice made so we can be free....or at least we used to be
The Tomb is an amazing place and it has an important place in my family's history. My dad was one of the many soldiers who were chosen to train to be a tomb sentinel, but never completed the 9 month training, he came close though. He was transferred to the firing party and served with them before being transferred to helicopter pilot training. It was the proudest time of his life and he made it a point to go back to Arlington regularly. My brother and I even had the privilege of getting a tour of the barracks and of holding one if the rifles used by the sentinels... While he refused to talk about his time in Vietnam, he was always ready to talk about his time in the Honor Guard. Even when he reached his 70's, he could perform the 21 steps with an amazing amount of grace and precision. He wasn't a perfect man, but it fills me with pride that a dirt poor street kid with dreams of becoming an American citizen stood guard at Arlington.
It's disgusting that some people have the audacity to look for attention and clout by interrupting ceremonies and disrespecting the people that fought in bloody and traumatizing conflicts.
@@2011metalmaniac more that they didn't face punishment or consequences for their actions. Freedoms are a right, but it is your responsibly to use them correctly. And you are not free from the consequences of your actions
Interesting fact about the tomb: During the attack on the twin towers in 2001 the guard was given the option to stand down and not guard the tomb during the attack but refused. Showing just how dedicated these men and women are to honoring the memory of the unknown fallen soldiers
"Soldiers, when committed to a task, can't compromise. Its unrelenting devotion to the standards of duty and courage, absolute loyalty to others, not letting the task go until it's been done." - John Keegan
It's important to know that the ship that brought the remains of the Unknown Soldier, USS Olympia, is a veteran of the Spanish-American War and flagship of Commodore Dewey at the battle of Manila Bay, still floats to this day. You can go visit her in Philadelphia, where she is docked across the most decorated US Battleship, the USS New Jersey.
the USS olympia and USS new jersey float on the delaware river, a river that divides philadelphia and camden. the USS olympia floats on the philadelphia side of the delaware at penns landing, and the USS new jersey floats on the camden side of the delaware river, which is the new jersey side.
I watch a Russian RUclips channel which focuses on recovering the weapons, misc items, notes or letters that survived and of course remains with some of the uniforms still intact. It’s crazy how close that is to Moscow.
The energy in that place is palpable... regardless of one's feelings as an American, we should honor them, we are only here to agree or disagree because they are not
That's definitely true for the soldiers fallen during WW2, but not so much for those that died during WWI and even less for the dead of the Korea War. Not saying that you should disrespect them though. Just that American democracy wasn't rly threatened by the other two wars.
@@interruptingcow2418 Its definetly one of the most rare to be sure. Up there in terms of rarity with things like astronaut badges, so I suppose that is what makes it so prestigious.
@@interruptingcow2418 it is the most honerourble position, even if you drop out of it on your own accord do to stress you can still say you watched over the tomb of the unknown soldiers. But gwtting to wear a tomb sentinel badge for life is the highest honour to be given in the eyes of the army. More higher then the medal of honour and purple heart.
awsome fact: When the area was threatened by a huge storm, the guards were allowed to evacuate. However, they refused to leave and continued their duty.
@@notcrazy6288 it’s not hard to show respect for the military especially those who’ve done active duty and those who do jobs like this. It’s just sad that level of respect is fading these days.
"They shall never grow old. But though forgotten in name, they will always be remembered. For their duty, sacrifice and valor will stand as an example to all of us."
The one monument that fascinates me is the one in France the Arc De Triomphe. Like imagine getting a tomb like that and people paying your respects for your sacrifice.
To be fair the Acr du Triomphe is just a neoclassical copy wanted by Napoleon to celebrate his victory like the Romans used to do. If you visit Rome you can still see 3 and according to the reports we have there were 36 in total.
@@helheimrgaming2547 yeah, it’s a tomb of all the famous wars that France fought including the Napoleonic Wars. It’s famous bc of a unknown ww1 soldier that was buried there.
I visited the place on August 2019, I was present during the change of the Guard and it was awesome. Edit: that Brigadier General has one star too many.
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. 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 I would love to go to the Tomb one day. I will show utmost respect to the place, to the tomb to honor the unknown soldiers and to the Tomb Sentintels.
When I was in 6th grade I got to lay a wreath in front of the tomb. I remember the sentinel came up to me and I was scared until he spoke in a very kind manner and showed me and other kids chosen to lay wreathes how to do it in a respectable way. It was a honor I will never forget!
As a young immigrant who came to the US this video brought tears to my eyes. God bless America. Many people don't understand the freedoms the US provides.
"For those who fought for it, Freedom has a flavor the protected will never know." -- On a handmade poster, Ward 8, Veterans Administration Hospital, Northampton MA USA.
ik they think those unknown soldiers are racist but they arent and tearing down those graves and sentinels will result in those unknown soldiers haunting those people who tire down those sentinels and try to rewrite our history
Canada’s unknown soldier is at the national war memorial in Ottawa and on Remembrance Day everyone puts their poppies on the tomb after the moment of silence at 11. They were killed during the Battle of Vimy Ridge.
Being Canadian myself, I have visited the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Ottawa.People place their poppies there on Remembrance Day in November 11. I place my poppy at a war memorial site near where I live every Remembrance Day. I have relatives who have served for Canada in WW2 and as UN Peacekeepers post war. We all have peace and freedom because of others service fought and died for us and our freedoms that we are privileged and lucky to have today.And their bodies are protected and immortalized at military cemetaries like Arlington Cemetary. Respect and honour for the fallen of any country during any war.🇨🇦
@@matthewdoherty803 not really ireland. there was a irish legion but they were not apart of the imperial guard. there definitely were foreigners like the mamelouks of the guard, the polish light horse, and the dutch lancers
I doubt the channel will do it because they are too much focused on England/ boring American history /ww2 I bet the owners of channels are americans. Well King and General is better in comparison
I've seen the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and it's a very humbling experience it is a once in a lifetime experience not gonna lie this episode made me cry
@@Rex1987 well in the wall of the monument there are written down battles from the Persian invasion and some modern battles , if I recall because you can't go near the tomb to see . So generally all of the hellenic history is in the tomb that is very simple for it's true beauty and honour
I visited the battlegrounds of Verdun a few weeks ago. It was a very interesting but also a hard experience since the whole area is laced with bomb holes and you always get reminded that you’re standing on a giant graveyard. Even the nature is strange there. You hardly hear any birds or see animals, as if Mother Nature knows that something clearly isn’t right on this place and that dead is omnipresent.
The environment in any of the major battlefields of WWI is heavily contaminated with lead and arsenic. Animals just can’t survive long in those places. That’s not even including the unexploded bombs and chemical weapons. In the worst places plants don’t even grow.
As a former Honor Guard member. I must say the people chosen to guard the tomb are some of the most well trained and educated soldiers ive met. The training is intense. 24 on 24 off over and over, they need to memorize a novel worth of info. Its the rarest medal to earn (something like only 550 given) when i served back in 07. Every American should visit Arlington. Such a Beautiful place. Proudest years of my life.
That's actually a very common occurrence in the heat of a Virginia summer. The admonishment to remain standing is given prior to the Changing of the Guard and is not repeated.
We have it in Rome. It is called "Memoriale del Milite Ignoto" and it is also a museum with relics from all the wars fought by Italy. From the indipendence wars in the second half of the 800s to the modern conflicts.
My First Sergeant during basic training was actually a Tomb Guard. It gives me a sense of pride that he turned our honor company almost singlehandedly into the best soldiers he had envisioned in his head. He was scary, and he was a master at what he did. I will always hold a high level of respect for that man.
I worked at the park the Northwood Irvine monument is placed and loved the honor to keep the monument clean and maintained daily and helping visitors come rub etch on special paper the names of their friends and family members lost there. If you ever have the chance swing by and pay respects, it's not a huge grand monument but it's still lovely.
In my summer 2017 trip to London, I visited the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Westminster Abbey. It was an honor to pay respects to the unidentified British soldier resting in peace.
I was stationed at Fort Myer and had the opportunity to befriend many of the sentinels. The amount of work they do on their uniforms was unreal. I was in the Presidential Salute Battery for 3 years, I miss it so much! ANC is attached to Fort Myer. There are several gates that lead from a parking lot on base directly into the cemetery. I used to walk through the cemetery on my days off, it was peaceful.
Thank you for doing this video @simplehistory. My younger brother is a tomb guard and I am proud of my brother and the ANC for the final resting place for soldiers. One of my favorite heros is buried there, Mureen O' Hara.
Simple History literally is the reason I am now obsessed with historical stories from the past. High Schools don't teach it the right way. Thank you for helping me find something I'm passionate about!
One thing they forgot to mention is that the Sentinels’ uniforms do not have ranks. This is to ensure that the Sentinels standing guard don’t outrank the Unknown Soldiers
I saw the changing of the guard 5 years ago it was cool to see. The graveyard around it though I will never forget. The stone crosses went on as far as I could see and kept going. Its crazy to think about how many people have died in war but its even crazier to see a sliver of that number in front of you.
My coworker asked me about the tomb and asked me what the significance is (he is an immigrant from Venezuela) and I showed him this video. A tear formed in his eye and he said “it is sad, but beautiful that these men may not go to their families, but be honored by their fellow Americans”. And then stated he would like to pay his respects to these men and others who lost their lives.
One thing I find interesting that was left out. Sentinels do not wear their rank insignia as to not possibly outrank the Unknowns out of respect to them.
I love how the video just ends so peacefully, it isn't like other videos where it ends nice and then right at the end "did you like this video? check out one of our others!", I respect that
Honor Gaurd Badge only stays with you while you're there, doesn't go with you. I was in Echo Company while at Fort Myer which is Honor Guard Company, 1st Platoon all the tall 6'0+ guys. I was short and I'm 6'3 🤣🤣
@@runningdebate2670 Actually, only the _Tomb Guards_ (Sentinels) can permanently receive the TGIB after nine months of duty, subject to the authority of the CO, 4th Battalion. One can find this information at the Memorial Amphitheater at Arlington Cemetery (I'm reading it from a photo I took there a couple years ago).
one of the proudest, and coolest, moments of my life was when i got to present the tomb honor guards with an American Flag. It was on a school trip to DC and i was allowed to bring and where my Boy Scout uniform. i will never forget that moment.
@@rjgesq.8967 out of curiosity did this moment in your life inspire you to join the military. to fight wars to lose and bail out. just so Russia and china can move in and benefit of the resources?
I've witnessed the Changing of the Guard a couple of times. It is so interesting and so amazing to witness, if you ever get the chance to witness it in person.
The Old Guard has the best D&C out of anyone in the military. When I was on funeral detail, we got them to do our training. We spent 1 week with them learning the job and consistently heard from the people at the funerals that we ran the tightest ceremony they had seen outside of Arlington. Being able to send off the fallen properly is one of the greatest honors you can have.
There is no national tomb of the Unknown soldier in my country (The Netherlands), but there are some graves for unknown soldiers on Military Field Grebberg near my village. There rest the soldiers that died defending the Grebbeberg Mount, which was the biggest battle in my country when Germany invaded in 1940. I try to go there every year on the 4th of May, which is our national remembrance day. It is a very humbling experience, even after 80 years it is still a very impressive ceremony, and it is so busy you have to be there hours in advance to actually be close enough to see and hear the ceremony.
I think that when Simple History implements the moment of silence at the end of each video, it really gives the younger generation (myself included) a real insight and reason as to why we have moments of silence. Thank you Simple History for all of the education you have gave me.
In Greece we have the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier right in front of the parliament building in Athens. It's a national honour to serve as its guard unit, the Evzones
In my German Hometown we have a Wall with the Fallen of WW1/WW2 (separated) There are so many Names for my little Town... Even my Grand-Grandfather who died in Verdun
"Even though their bodies have long since returned to dust, their sacrifice still lives on. We must strive to cherish their memory and never forget..." - Valiant Hearts
France too, under the Arc de Triomphe which every evening at 6pm a ceremony is organized to never forget. I've been there, it's a great respect for what France had to deal with on their own soil 🙏🏻🇫🇷
@@georgeII420 Who's ego? You know the unknown soldier has been dead for a hundred years right? And beside, it pays respect to all those who died in the field of battle without proper burial. I don't suppose you'd like to be forgotten after death (unless you do, then good for you).
This comment is to all the men and women who gave/give their lives to protect our way of life by joining the armed forces, serving, and protecting those we love. I give my thanks and blessing to you brave soldiers/sailors/airmen/Marines and so forth for defending our country. God Bless you!
Exclamation point to my father's best friend during his service in Vietnam. The man, a Kentuckian by birth, was posted to the Tomb right after his return to the World. Props to Jerry Hopkins, 3rd Infantry Division.
Back when I was in middle school we went to DC as a school trip, an I was chosen to put a wreath on the tomb. One of the greatest honors I have ever had.
i remember watching the guard change a couple of years ago, we stopped in d.c. on our way to visit some friends in virginia. the quiet of the scene despite the dozens of people watching was moving. the soldiers move in a perfect and organized formation. arlington is a very stoic and emotional place.
It's really sad to see so many people disrespecting tombs of soldiers. I don't care who they were or who they fought for, they still died in service to their country. That alone demands respect.
One of my drills in basic was a guard for the tomb of the unknown soldier. He couldn’t speak highly enough of his service in Arlington. Had a level of commitment I’ll never have.
Saw the changing of the guard while I was on Terminal Leave. Never was one for D&C, saw it as mostlt pointless, honestly. Still do, really, but that's because I have a mercinary mindset... Arlington, however, gave me a whole new way to look at things. As far as I am concerned, if there is such a thing as holy ground, it's Arlington and the Tomb is it's sanctum sanctorum.
I have nothing but respect for the Honor Guard. They're not just guarding some body, but a symbol of gratitude for all the unkown soldiers that gave their live in service of their country. I may not be an American, but I can still respect that.
Wow I was just their! This September 09-03-21 for my grandfather that pass away, this is definitely a special sign for me to see someone on RUclips making a video about Arlington Virginia national cemetery! 😭 I miss my grandpa he was my best friend and teacher, he was a United States Army soldier that was deployed to Japan part of the occupation after World War II and then shortly right after he went to Korea, his 21st infantry regiment and 24th division so basically what I’m saying he was one of the first G.I. That deployed to Korea and got a purple heart two bronze stars and one silver star from that forgotten war… wow it’s so weird not having him here on this earth 🌎 it’s definitely never bin the same after he passed away last year… R.I.P grandpa I wish I had a cigarette pack for you before we buried you 😢
I didn’t know other countries had tombs to soldiers like this. Thanks comment section One other thing; do other countries guard their tomb of the unknown soldier as diligently as America does? Because that guy there is basically the American royal guard.
I got to go to Arlington on the 4th of July back in 2018 when I was on orders. I got to see the change of the guard and even managed to find a service member my dad served with who died in Afghanistan. Arlington is a humbling place, and to see the Tomb of the Unknown in person with the guard change... it's an extremely impactful experience. All the videos of the ceremony don't do the in-person event justice.
Thank you simple history for making this video it really made me feel something after we buried my grandfather, this year and last year really made us all feel numb on everything including death..😢
I don't know if it's true or if it's just something I heard second handed, but the Sentinels, when on duty, remove their rank patches so they can never outrank the soldier they guard.
I've seen it in person. Its beautiful for being a cemetery. I never got to see the change of guard, but its an unforgettable moment in my life. Much like 9/11
I actually visited the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier back in 1983, got to witness the Changing of the Guard, they asked for complete silence until it was over then once it was over everyone left and as we were far from the area a Lady told my Parents that she was surprised how quiet I was among the other kids that she had seen there during the Changing of the Guard. My Father said He himself was in the Army and that he taught me to respect the soldiers who had fallen buried in Arlington.
Chapters:
2:24 The First World War's Unknown Soldier
6:36 The Monument
8:19 The Guard Ceremony
11:28 Later Unknown Soldiers
Hello.
Yessir
hi
Wow
Cool
Fan fact: The Guard of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Identification badge (worn by all current and former guards of the tomb) is one of the rarest decorations in the entire American military. Right up there in rarity with the U.S. Astronaut badge and the Military Horse Identification badge.
OP, its really that rare?
Wait, U.S. astronauts are considered apart of the military? Isn’t nasa separate from the military?
@@tioy3442 lots of NASA astronauts are former military.
@@tioy3442 You need flight hours with jet to apply to be one.
@@tioy3442 How it works is if you're in the military the branch you're in basically leases you out to NASA. You can be Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marines and become an astronaut though I'm not sure about the requirements you have to meet though I toyed with the idea when I was an Airman.
Imagine dying in war and not knowing that people would honor and protect your dead body 24/7. That is truly, being immortalized
You die, and then you get a huge tomb with guards.
It’s not really “your body” it’s more of a symbolism
There aren't actual bodies under the monument... You know how big of a mass grave that would require? Lol
Wait, you mean the actual one unknown soldier that was buried there. My mistake, I don't know why I thought you meant every unknown kia soldier since then... You're right though, would be pretty crazy to have been that one guy.
@Mette B war is sad. This is just a beautiful sentiment in an attempt to alleviate some of the pain.
I've witnessed the changing of the guard. And to say that it was stoic is an understatement. The pure reverence of the guards and the individuals watching was palpable
So have I. It was authority personified.
It brought tears to my eyes
Defiantly something that everyone living in the US needs to witness
@@sgtjacques4172 I agree 100%...maybe the liberal folks would understand that it's more than a flag. It represents the sacrifice made so we can be free....or at least we used to be
I've seen it also, it was awesome
The Tomb is an amazing place and it has an important place in my family's history. My dad was one of the many soldiers who were chosen to train to be a tomb sentinel, but never completed the 9 month training, he came close though.
He was transferred to the firing party and served with them before being transferred to helicopter pilot training.
It was the proudest time of his life and he made it a point to go back to Arlington regularly. My brother and I even had the privilege of getting a tour of the barracks and of holding one if the rifles used by the sentinels...
While he refused to talk about his time in Vietnam, he was always ready to talk about his time in the Honor Guard. Even when he reached his 70's, he could perform the 21 steps with an amazing amount of grace and precision.
He wasn't a perfect man, but it fills me with pride that a dirt poor street kid with dreams of becoming an American citizen stood guard at Arlington.
Your father is a good man, thank him from me for what he has done.
It is requested that all visitors maintain a levels of respect and silence
@Miguel Cisneros at least that actually happens in the Unknown Soldier Tomb the many times I visited it
"requested"
@Miguel Cisneros Nah, when I went it was completely silent. I was actually surprised
@@accent1666 Don't worry. People make assumptions about things without actually being there. They do this to spread their own agenda usually.
Yes.
In Taiwan, we have the memorial tomb of unknown soldier where called Martyrs’ Shine(in Chinese is mean 忠烈祠）
@Greenish Man you ok man? You sound angry. Do you not get attention from your parents or something
@Greenish Man Taiwan is the real China. The land to the west of it is filled with usurpers.
Cool
@Greenish Man about you
@Greenish Man Bro stop being a troll.
It's disgusting that some people have the audacity to look for attention and clout by interrupting ceremonies and disrespecting the people that fought in bloody and traumatizing conflicts.
It’s just our new culture in our new country.
@@grandtheftavocado were in an age when one has probably too many freedoms and has become complacent.
@@2011metalmaniac more that they didn't face punishment or consequences for their actions. Freedoms are a right, but it is your responsibly to use them correctly. And you are not free from the consequences of your actions
Guards should have the authority to shoot if they don't listen to warnings when trespassing.
@@S1seer I'm pretty sure they do. It's only courtesy that they order the people to back up. Those guns are loaded.
Interesting fact about the tomb:
During the attack on the twin towers in 2001 the guard was given the option to stand down and not guard the tomb during the attack but refused. Showing just how dedicated these men and women are to honoring the memory of the unknown fallen soldiers
wait was the tomb also attacked? or were the guards offered to get ready in case of more attacks?
And even though they're forced to not stand guard in horrific storms like hurricanes, some Guards legitimately want to stay.
@@kirtil5177 they were offered to stand down and basically evacuate the tomb in case it was another target
@@maxxor-overworldhero6730 are you in distress Sir? Just asking because of your pfp
@@simunator The country is.
"Soldiers,
when committed to a task, can't compromise.
Its unrelenting devotion to the standards of duty and courage,
absolute loyalty to others,
not letting the task go until it's been done."
- John Keegan
Crack cocaine
@@oasis1282 Wow dude your so funny you should be a comedian
@@originalyoutubenamethatsag6321 cocaine doesnt make you funny. Maybe consider not pushing too many buttons on the keyboard
@@oasis1282 lol you're the one raging
@@oasis1282 it was probs sarcasm dude
It's important to know that the ship that brought the remains of the Unknown Soldier, USS Olympia, is a veteran of the Spanish-American War and flagship of Commodore Dewey at the battle of Manila Bay, still floats to this day. You can go visit her in Philadelphia, where she is docked across the most decorated US Battleship, the USS New Jersey.
the USS olympia and USS new jersey float on the delaware river, a river that divides philadelphia and camden. the USS olympia floats on the philadelphia side of the delaware at penns landing, and the USS new jersey floats on the camden side of the delaware river, which is the new jersey side.
The only thing good to come out of Jersey.
I kid, but I hope to one day visit it myself. Was in DC once, but never got the chance to visit.
Don't forget the submarine USS Becuna
@@flannelflax8078 yes but people could see the Big J from across the river, if you're in good location and when the weather is good/clear
That ship betrayed my people as it brought hope of independence. Instead she ferried more and more Americans to kill my ancestors.
Rest in peace all fallen soldiers. We here in ex-USSR have unknown soldiers' tombs in almost every city 🙁
eastern europe suffered immensely especially in defences of cities
You had a lot of soldiers to choose from in WW2.
Respect 🇷🇺
I watch a Russian RUclips channel which focuses on recovering the weapons, misc items, notes or letters that survived and of course remains with some of the uniforms still intact. It’s crazy how close that is to Moscow.
"Your name is unknown, your legacy is inmortal"
13:16 A moment of silence for all heroes whose names could've been forgotten, but their bravery, courage and sacrifice have not.
A man will never die if their name is still remembered
So always remember their name if you know them
Amen
Rest in peace to all those unknown soilders
The energy in that place is palpable... regardless of one's feelings as an American, we should honor them, we are only here to agree or disagree because they are not
Well put. Thank you! 🙂
I agree. If only more of our fellow contrymen thought lile this... Our nation would be better off...
Amen. 🙏🇺🇸
That, was beautifully put.
That's definitely true for the soldiers fallen during WW2, but not so much for those that died during WWI and even less for the dead of the Korea War. Not saying that you should disrespect them though. Just that American democracy wasn't rly threatened by the other two wars.
Most prestigious honor in the army is earning the privilege to be a Tomb sentinel.
Really?
@@interruptingcow2418 Its definetly one of the most rare to be sure. Up there in terms of rarity with things like astronaut badges, so I suppose that is what makes it so prestigious.
@@interruptingcow2418 it is the most honerourble position, even if you drop out of it on your own accord do to stress you can still say you watched over the tomb of the unknown soldiers. But gwtting to wear a tomb sentinel badge for life is the highest honour to be given in the eyes of the army. More higher then the medal of honour and purple heart.
@@paxamericania5923 let me confirm this. Il get back to you.
@@interruptingcow2418 did u confirm it?
awsome fact:
When the area was threatened by a huge storm, the guards were allowed to evacuate. However, they refused to leave and continued their duty.
True, they refused, but they weren't just 'allowed' to, they were ordered to.
@@notcrazy6288 ever more reason to respect the sentinels
@@lynn-marieflechner5406 Absolutely. It's hard not to respect disciplined and total conviction to a righteous purpose.
@@notcrazy6288 it’s not hard to show respect for the military especially those who’ve done active duty and those who do jobs like this. It’s just sad that level of respect is fading these days.
@@lynn-marieflechner5406 They’re just being morons.
"They shall never grow old. But though forgotten in name, they will always be remembered. For their duty, sacrifice and valor will stand as an example to all of us."
The one monument that fascinates me is the one in France the Arc De Triomphe. Like imagine getting a tomb like that and people paying your respects for your sacrifice.
That’s a tomb?!
To be fair the Acr du Triomphe is just a neoclassical copy wanted by Napoleon to celebrate his victory like the Romans used to do. If you visit Rome you can still see 3 and according to the reports we have there were 36 in total.
@@helheimrgaming2547 yeah, it’s a tomb of all the famous wars that France fought including the Napoleonic Wars. It’s famous bc of a unknown ww1 soldier that was buried there.
@@gabrielarquillo3355 nah
A respect owed to all that make the ultimate sacrifice
Visiting the tomb will reinforce how important it is to honor those who serve their country.
Ok cool 😎
Yes
America doesn't exist anymore.
@@imperialbricks1977 Why do you say that? When did it end?
To those who Masscare and invade countries all over the world*
I visited the place on August 2019, I was present during the change of the Guard and it was awesome.
Edit: that Brigadier General has one star too many.
@Just Dope. Stop Spamming !
I went there too for a school trip. It was expensive but it was worth it to see this place in person
@@therealspeedwagon1451 yeah 8th grade trip was awesome
I have family that is buried there and visit relatively often and have witnessed some of those guys go off on people and it’s hilarious
@@jakefisher8691 *laughs in covid*
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.
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
I would love to go to the Tomb one day. I will show utmost respect to the place, to the tomb to honor the unknown soldiers and to the Tomb Sentintels.
I'll admit this story always brings a tear to my eye
When I was in 6th grade I got to lay a wreath in front of the tomb. I remember the sentinel came up to me and I was scared until he spoke in a very kind manner and showed me and other kids chosen to lay wreathes how to do it in a respectable way. It was a honor I will never forget!
As a young immigrant who came to the US this video brought tears to my eyes. God bless America. Many people don't understand the freedoms the US provides.
"For those who fought for it, Freedom has a flavor the protected will never know." -- On a handmade poster, Ward 8, Veterans Administration Hospital, Northampton MA USA.
Bruh, your name is Kevin.
@@rickylafleur9601 Yeah, i was also born in Athens from Albanian parents. Is it forbidden for immigrants to have none ethnic names?! smh
If you think the U.S. provides freedom, you should try France.
The people trying to disrespect the sentinels are just sad Edit: Thanks for the likes :)
A swift kick to the nuts would probably deter them from trying again
I agree, its just sad
@@SilverFang2789 just imprisoned them,once and for all
@@SilverFang2789 noice
ik they think those unknown soldiers are racist but they arent and tearing down those graves and sentinels will result in those unknown soldiers haunting those people who tire down those sentinels and try to rewrite our history
Canada’s unknown soldier is at the national war memorial in Ottawa and on Remembrance Day everyone puts their poppies on the tomb after the moment of silence at 11.
They were killed during the Battle of Vimy Ridge.
I thought this video was about Canada’s unknown soldier
Respect 🇨🇦
Being Canadian myself, I have visited the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Ottawa.People place their poppies there on Remembrance Day in November 11. I place my poppy at a war memorial site near where I live every Remembrance Day. I have relatives who have served for Canada in WW2 and as UN Peacekeepers post war.
We all have peace and freedom because of others service fought and died for us and our freedoms that we are privileged and lucky to have today.And their bodies are protected and immortalized at military cemetaries like Arlington Cemetary. Respect and honour for the fallen of any country during any war.🇨🇦
May those hero’s Rest In Peace.
the plural form is heroes fyi
French soldiers > American GIs
For me unknown soldier is ww1 period not Vietnam
@@Codex_0613 people who do not come from an english speaking country exist
@@notabelincoln5501 and now he knows the plural of the word
i'm also not from an english speaking country
so you're welcome
Not heros. Rest in piss, Villains
Video Idea: Napoleon’s Imperial Guard. Their structure was super interesting and would be really entertaining to watch!
Includeing a part which was made up of different countries like ireland
@@matthewdoherty803 not really ireland. there was a irish legion but they were not apart of the imperial guard. there definitely were foreigners like the mamelouks of the guard, the polish light horse, and the dutch lancers
@@robowisanveithasung6022 rlly always thought they were a of shoot from the gaurd but k
I doubt the channel will do it because they are too much focused on England/ boring American history /ww2
I bet the owners of channels are americans. Well King and General is better in comparison
"It is requested at all times that visitors remain behind the bars."
The way how they yell that so formally and intimidating.
I've seen the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and it's a very humbling experience it is a once in a lifetime experience not gonna lie this episode made me cry
@@byrondubose7445 They didn’t though. They died painful deaths for absolutely nothing.
@@byrondubose7445 Want to name one conflict that was justified besides WW2? None of them. In other words, these dolts died for nothing.
I want to cry but these trolls in the comment section just made me pissed
@@byrondubose7445 Well yeah, those conflicts weren’t justified. They’re weren’t worth the amount of bodies pile onto them.
@Robert Sears 2nd that
Damn. In greece we have a simular monument dedicated to the unknown soldier who died protecting his homeland and his values.
Imagine how many soldiers are unknown from 2.000BC up to this year , celebrated and honoured
is that also dedicated to the losses greece had in both world wars or is it for more classical times?
@@Rex1987 well in the wall of the monument there are written down battles from the Persian invasion and some modern battles , if I recall because you can't go near the tomb to see . So generally all of the hellenic history is in the tomb that is very simple for it's true beauty and honour
Respect 🇬🇷
I visited the battlegrounds of Verdun a few weeks ago.
It was a very interesting but also a hard experience since the whole area is laced with bomb holes and you always get reminded that you’re standing on a giant graveyard.
Even the nature is strange there. You hardly hear any birds or see animals, as if Mother Nature knows that something clearly isn’t right on this place and that dead is omnipresent.
The environment in any of the major battlefields of WWI is heavily contaminated with lead and arsenic. Animals just can’t survive long in those places. That’s not even including the unexploded bombs and chemical weapons.
In the worst places plants don’t even grow.
Those 21 seconds of silence at the end really got to me.
As a former Honor Guard member. I must say the people chosen to guard the tomb are some of the most well trained and educated soldiers ive met. The training is intense. 24 on 24 off over and over, they need to memorize a novel worth of info. Its the rarest medal to earn (something like only 550 given) when i served back in 07. Every American should visit Arlington. Such a Beautiful place. Proudest years of my life.
Wow that’s an interesting story sir and thank you for your service!
Saying this as I was the most REMF soldier you could get and still deploy and not be a total fobbit... I am so damn proud of you.
@@Deridus still deploy. Umm not exactly
Lady: Passes out
Soldier: IT IS REQUESTED THAT EVERYONE REMAINS STANDING!
That's actually a very common occurrence in the heat of a Virginia summer. The admonishment to remain standing is given prior to the Changing of the Guard and is not repeated.
We have it in Rome.
It is called "Memoriale del Milite Ignoto" and it is also a museum with relics from all the wars fought by Italy.
From the indipendence wars in the second half of the 800s to the modern conflicts.
Are there Roman artifacts there?
@@therealspeedwagon1451 No, 90% of the stuff in there is from WW1.
yeah, it's the first thing I thought just with the title. I don't remenber much of it, I was a little kid. Just guards and a Flame?
Respect 🇮🇹🇻🇦
My First Sergeant during basic training was actually a Tomb Guard. It gives me a sense of pride that he turned our honor company almost singlehandedly into the best soldiers he had envisioned in his head. He was scary, and he was a master at what he did. I will always hold a high level of respect for that man.
I worked at the park the Northwood Irvine monument is placed and loved the honor to keep the monument clean and maintained daily and helping visitors come rub etch on special paper the names of their friends and family members lost there. If you ever have the chance swing by and pay respects, it's not a huge grand monument but it's still lovely.
In my summer 2017 trip to London, I visited the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Westminster Abbey. It was an honor to pay respects to the unidentified British soldier resting in peace.
The 21 second moment of silence at the end of the video was an incredibly nice touch.
Amazing video per usual.
I was stationed at Fort Myer and had the opportunity to befriend many of the sentinels. The amount of work they do on their uniforms was unreal. I was in the Presidential Salute Battery for 3 years, I miss it so much!
ANC is attached to Fort Myer. There are several gates that lead from a parking lot on base directly into the cemetery. I used to walk through the cemetery on my days off, it was peaceful.
“Wait until the war is over, and we’re both a little older, The Unknown Soldier”
*The Doors,* not stupid Among Us!
Thank you for doing this video @simplehistory. My younger brother is a tomb guard and I am proud of my brother and the ANC for the final resting place for soldiers. One of my favorite heros is buried there, Mureen O' Hara.
Wait until the war is over
And were both a little older
The unknown soldier...
Lets play amongus
@@oasis1282 *AMOGUS*
Simple History literally is the reason I am now obsessed with historical stories from the past. High Schools don't teach it the right way. Thank you for helping me find something I'm passionate about!
your name is unknown but your deed is immortal
One thing they forgot to mention is that the Sentinels’ uniforms do not have ranks. This is to ensure that the Sentinels standing guard don’t outrank the Unknown Soldiers
I saw the changing of the guard 5 years ago it was cool to see. The graveyard around it though I will never forget. The stone crosses went on as far as I could see and kept going. Its crazy to think about how many people have died in war but its even crazier to see a sliver of that number in front of you.
Your name is unknown, your deed is immortal
My coworker asked me about the tomb and asked me what the significance is (he is an immigrant from Venezuela) and I showed him this video. A tear formed in his eye and he said “it is sad, but beautiful that these men may not go to their families, but be honored by their fellow Americans”. And then stated he would like to pay his respects to these men and others who lost their lives.
Finally something you can make a video about something I never understood
One thing I find interesting that was left out.
Sentinels do not wear their rank insignia as to not possibly outrank the Unknowns out of respect to them.
I love how the video just ends so peacefully, it isn't like other videos where it ends nice and then right at the end "did you like this video? check out one of our others!", I respect that
Can you guys cover guerrilla tactics? Just as you did the other tactics like hull down?
@Just Dope mashallah my but
@Just Dope where funny bro?
Shot out to all our Vets past and present, those we know and those watching and reading this, THANK YOU, THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR SERVICE!
More Soldiers have Ranger, Sapper and Special Forces Tabs than the Honor Guard tab or Tomb Guard Badges. Something to think about.
I think only the astronaut badge has less recipients than the Honor Guard badge.
Honor Gaurd Badge only stays with you while you're there, doesn't go with you. I was in Echo Company while at Fort Myer which is Honor Guard Company, 1st Platoon all the tall 6'0+ guys. I was short and I'm 6'3 🤣🤣
@@runningdebate2670 very nice. Also didn’t know it was possible for someone who is 6’3 to feel short outside a basketball team.
@@runningdebate2670 Actually, only the _Tomb Guards_ (Sentinels) can permanently receive the TGIB after nine months of duty, subject to the authority of the CO, 4th Battalion. One can find this information at the Memorial Amphitheater at Arlington Cemetery (I'm reading it from a photo I took there a couple years ago).
one of the proudest, and coolest, moments of my life was when i got to present the tomb honor guards with an American Flag. It was on a school trip to DC and i was allowed to bring and where my Boy Scout uniform. i will never forget that moment.
thanks for sharing your ego trip of the past.
@@georgeII420 hey youre welcome! Hope you enjoyed it! 👉🏼😎👉🏼
@@rjgesq.8967 out of curiosity did this moment in your life inspire you to join the military. to fight wars to lose and bail out. just so Russia and china can move in and benefit of the resources?
@@georgeII420 no?
@@rjgesq.8967 no? does that mean yes.
I've witnessed the Changing of the Guard a couple of times. It is so interesting and so amazing to witness, if you ever get the chance to witness it in person.
The Old Guard has the best D&C out of anyone in the military. When I was on funeral detail, we got them to do our training. We spent 1 week with them learning the job and consistently heard from the people at the funerals that we ran the tightest ceremony they had seen outside of Arlington. Being able to send off the fallen properly is one of the greatest honors you can have.
This got me tearing up. Rest in peace my brothers and sisters.
There is no national tomb of the Unknown soldier in my country (The Netherlands), but there are some graves for unknown soldiers on Military Field Grebberg near my village. There rest the soldiers that died defending the Grebbeberg Mount, which was the biggest battle in my country when Germany invaded in 1940. I try to go there every year on the 4th of May, which is our national remembrance day. It is a very humbling experience, even after 80 years it is still a very impressive ceremony, and it is so busy you have to be there hours in advance to actually be close enough to see and hear the ceremony.
Respect🇳🇱
Indonesian vs
That was really moving. Thank you Simple History for doing this video. Fan here in the UK.
I lost it when he explained how the medel of honor and Victoria cross was given to the unknown soldier got me all teared up
I think that when Simple History implements the moment of silence at the end of each video, it really gives the younger generation (myself included) a real insight and reason as to why we have moments of silence. Thank you Simple History for all of the education you have gave me.
You did it Simple history. You made me tear up and choke up during a video. This was beautiful.
I like the forrest gump reference at the start, when all the soldiers die in the different wars the us has fought! Great detail ❤️
Its not a forrest gump reference but aight
How is that in any way a reference to that
In Greece we have the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier right in front of the parliament building in Athens.
It's a national honour to serve as its guard unit, the Evzones
I love that the monument represents the United States, France and the United Kingdom. Beautiful nations... Allies forever 🇺🇸🤝🇲🇫🤝🇬🇧
And Russia too
Russia/ussr was a huge ally during both World Wars. They essentially won ww2 for the allies. They don't get enough props for that.
@Robert Sears you ig'nant
I would precise "Allies"
In war we don't have allies but Interest - De Gaulle
@Robert Sears without ussr in war, im pretty sure war would be lost
Unfortunately, a lot of Americans today have forgotten the sacrifices made by these men.
In my German Hometown we have a Wall with the Fallen of WW1/WW2 (separated)
There are so many Names for my little Town...
Even my Grand-Grandfather who died in Verdun
He shall never grow old.
In my village we have that too. 1000 heads village and over 100 names for each war.
Unknown soldier who awarded the Medal of honor and Victoria cross
"Even though their bodies have long since returned to dust, their sacrifice still lives on. We must strive to cherish their memory and never forget..."
- Valiant Hearts
God bless this Land and everyone who put his/her life on the line to serve it
May those that fought for us forever be remembered.
Peace to the fallen.
We have this in Australia too.
'The Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier' in our nation's capital Canberra.
Respect🇦🇺
France too, under the Arc de Triomphe which every evening at 6pm a ceremony is organized to never forget.
I've been there, it's a great respect for what France had to deal with on their own soil 🙏🏻🇫🇷
I have no idea, why Polish Tomb of Unknown Soldier has no guard over it.
Well you should not mess with a polish soldier... even dead he might be a threat.
poland is smart they know its a waste of money. this garbage is just for show to build up the soldiers ego.
@@georgeII420 the soldiers guard it so random people wont throw trash or vandalize it.
@@georgeII420 Who's ego? You know the unknown soldier has been dead for a hundred years right? And beside, it pays respect to all those who died in the field of battle without proper burial. I don't suppose you'd like to be forgotten after death (unless you do, then good for you).
@@abunchofiguanaswithinterne2186 the ego of the idiots putting that show on tax payer dime. btw you will be forgotten too lmao.
This comment is to all the men and women who gave/give their lives to protect our way of life by joining the armed forces, serving, and protecting those we love. I give my thanks and blessing to you brave soldiers/sailors/airmen/Marines and so forth for defending our country. God Bless you!
Exclamation point to my father's best friend during his service in Vietnam. The man, a Kentuckian by birth, was posted to the Tomb right after his return to the World. Props to Jerry Hopkins, 3rd Infantry Division.
Back when I was in middle school we went to DC as a school trip, an I was chosen to put a wreath on the tomb. One of the greatest honors I have ever had.
i remember watching the guard change a couple of years ago, we stopped in d.c. on our way to visit some friends in virginia. the quiet of the scene despite the dozens of people watching was moving. the soldiers move in a perfect and organized formation. arlington is a very stoic and emotional place.
It's really sad to see so many people disrespecting tombs of soldiers. I don't care who they were or who they fought for, they still died in service to their country. That alone demands respect.
Vast majority of visitors are respectful and follow the rules.
One of my drills in basic was a guard for the tomb of the unknown soldier. He couldn’t speak highly enough of his service in Arlington. Had a level of commitment I’ll never have.
Saw the changing of the guard while I was on Terminal Leave. Never was one for D&C, saw it as mostlt pointless, honestly. Still do, really, but that's because I have a mercinary mindset... Arlington, however, gave me a whole new way to look at things. As far as I am concerned, if there is such a thing as holy ground, it's Arlington and the Tomb is it's sanctum sanctorum.
God bless all who serve the American people and obey the U.S Constitution.
You are brave for mentioning God.
Just those who serve the American people? What about those who serve their respective nations?
I have nothing but respect for the Honor Guard. They're not just guarding some body, but a symbol of gratitude for all the unkown soldiers that gave their live in service of their country. I may not be an American, but I can still respect that.
I never thought I'd tear up watching a Simple History video.
Wow I was just their! This September 09-03-21 for my grandfather that pass away, this is definitely a special sign for me to see someone on RUclips making a video about Arlington Virginia national cemetery! 😭 I miss my grandpa he was my best friend and teacher, he was a United States Army soldier that was deployed to Japan part of the occupation after World War II and then shortly right after he went to Korea, his 21st infantry regiment and 24th division so basically what I’m saying he was one of the first G.I. That deployed to Korea and got a purple heart two bronze stars and one silver star from that forgotten war… wow it’s so weird not having him here on this earth 🌎 it’s definitely never bin the same after he passed away last year… R.I.P grandpa I wish I had a cigarette pack for you before we buried you 😢
I didn’t know other countries had tombs to soldiers like this. Thanks comment section
One other thing; do other countries guard their tomb of the unknown soldier as diligently as America does? Because that guy there is basically the American royal guard.
Why wouldn't you think other countries would have one
I got to go to Arlington on the 4th of July back in 2018 when I was on orders. I got to see the change of the guard and even managed to find a service member my dad served with who died in Afghanistan. Arlington is a humbling place, and to see the Tomb of the Unknown in person with the guard change... it's an extremely impactful experience. All the videos of the ceremony don't do the in-person event justice.
It’s amazing to see the evolution of simple history animation
I’ve been there and it was astonishing, the pure silence, the clacking of boots, and the guard change ceremony is amazing to see
10:28 = 21 steps + seconds symbolism
13:18 - 13:46 = 28 seconds
Missed opportunity to end the video for 21 seconds of silence and respects.
Thanks!
My favorite channel. Like for Simple History!
Thank you simple history for making this video it really made me feel something after we buried my grandfather, this year and last year really made us all feel numb on everything including death..😢
I don't know if it's true or if it's just something I heard second handed, but the Sentinels, when on duty, remove their rank patches so they can never outrank the soldier they guard.
just putting a ward for future answers lol
yes this is true
Correct. You never wear rank when on the mat.
I did particularly like the near silence at the end of the video, very respectful.
Lately all their videos end like that, but on this one fits perfectly
I've seen it in person. Its beautiful for being a cemetery. I never got to see the change of guard, but its an unforgettable moment in my life. Much like 9/11
I know I'm not the only one who noticed, but I appreciated the moment of silence at the end.
A salute to the Unknown soldiers and the Silent Sentinels who guard them.
I actually visited the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier back in 1983, got to witness the Changing of the Guard, they asked for complete silence until it was over then once it was over everyone left and as we were far from the area a Lady told my Parents that she was surprised how quiet I was among the other kids that she had seen there during the Changing of the Guard. My Father said He himself was in the Army and that he taught me to respect the soldiers who had fallen buried in Arlington.