What It Takes to Become a Sentinel at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

The Elite Sentinel Role

• 🎯 The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is guarded 24/7 by an elite unit, with only 735 Tomb Guard Identification Badges awarded since 1958, making it the second rarest in the Army.
• 💡 Becoming a sentinel requires a rigorous 6-to-9-month training program with a 90% attrition rate, emphasizing a standard of perfection.

Training and Testing Regimen

• 🔬 Trainees undergo five tests, including a uniform inspection and knowledge of the Tomb's history and protocols.
• 🏋️ A weapons strength test simulates holding the nearly 12 lb rifle, building endurance for the specific demands of guarding.
• 🧼 Meticulous uniform care is crucial, involving detailed polishing of patent leather shoes and precise alterations, with graders measuring down to the 64th of an inch.

The Sentinel's Duty and Demeanor

• 🚶 Sentinels march 21 steps, pause for 21 seconds facing east, and march 21 steps back, symbolizing the 21-gun salute.
• 🕶️ Sunglasses are worn to allow subtle observation of the crowd while maintaining a forward-facing posture, ensuring crowd control and peace.
• ⚠️ Sentinels are trained to admonish visitors who break rules, with strict enforcement to maintain the solemnity of the site.

Challenges and Perseverance

• 😥 Pvt. Joshua Beckman faced a setback during his uniform inspection test, feeling lightheaded and unable to complete the required standing duration, leading to a test cancellation.
• 💪 Despite the failure, Beckman demonstrated resilience, vowing to learn from the experience and prepare better for his next attempt.
• ✅ Forty days later, Beckman successfully passed his uniform inspection, continuing his journey toward becoming an official sentinel.

Unique Aspects of the Role

• 👩‍✈️ Sergeant Kaye Johnston is highlighted as the lone female sentinel currently serving, one of only eight women to ever earn the badge, acknowledging her significant impact on inspiring others.
• 📏 A height requirement of 5'10" for males and 5'9" for females is in place to present a disciplined and fit image of the US Army.