1. Must stand watch 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
2. Must memorize the history of Arlington National Cemetery and recite it by memory.
3. Must memorize the grave locations of nearly 300 veterans.
4. Must keep their uniforms and weapons in immaculate condition.
5. Must master the changing-of-the-guard ceremony.
6. Must be temporary for the first nine months to earn a permanent Unknown Soldier Guard Badge. It is the third least-awarded badge in the U.S. Army.
7. Must do the following while guarding the tomb:
- March 21 steps south down the 63-foot-long (19 m) black mat laid across the Tomb.
- Turn and face east, toward the Tomb, for 21 seconds.
- Turn and face north, change weapon to the outside shoulder, and wait 21 seconds.
- March 21 steps down the mat.
- Turn and face east for 21 seconds.
- Turn and face south, change weapon to the outside shoulder, and wait 21 seconds.
- Repeat the routine until the soldier is relieved of duty.
8. Take an average of six hours to prepare their heavy wool uniform for service.
9. Must stand between 5 feet 10 inches and 6 feet 2 inches.
10. Must have a waist size no larger than 30 inches.
No comments.