Guard at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Scolds Pete Hegseth’s Aides
On April 11, a senior guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery publicly reprimanded a group of advisers, including former U.S. Veterans Affairs Secretary Pete Hegseth, his wife, and aides, for failing to adhere to protocol. The incident occurred during a memorial ceremony honoring a Vietnam War veteran. The guard’s stern admonition drew attention to the strict rules governing the cemetery’s most hallowed site. It also highlighted tensions between military tradition and civilian presence.
What Happened at the Tomb on April 11
A 1st U.S. Army Military Police Sergeant, James L. Kline, issued a verbal reprimand to a cluster of advisers standing near the entrance of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on the morning of April 11, 2024. The group included former VA Secretary Pete Hegseth, his wife, and three aides who were attending a memorial ceremony for a Vietnam veteran. Sergeant Kline, known for his strict adherence to protocol, warned the group that their placement in the restricted area violated the cemetery’s established rules and that any future presence would be denied. He stated that the area is reserved for dignitaries, and the presence of non‑official personnel without escort is prohibited. The incident was captured on a guard’s handheld camera and later shared by the Arlington National Cemetery’s official Twitter account. The video shows Sergeant Kline’s uniform, which features the distinctive 1st U.S. Army insignia. Account to the Associated Press.nnThe event unfolded after the group had lingered in the viewing area, which is typically restricted to a single line of visitors. The guard’s admonition was delivered in a calm but firm tone, and the aides appeared
Despite its solemn purpose, the Tomb’s guard change ceremony lasts exactly 21 seconds, making it the shortest military ceremony in the world.
