Hegseth honors guard who scolded his group at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Thursday honored the Army sentinel who forcefully scolded members of his entourage for laughing and talking near Arlington National Cemetery’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on Veterans Day.

Hegseth posted a photo of himself on social media pinning a Joint Service Commendation Medal on the unidentified soldier’s chest.

“We love soldiers. We love standards. Well done, Specialist,” Hegseth wrote. “Carry on Patriots.”

On Veterans Day, Hegseth, his wife Jennifer, and three of his top deputies were seen posing for photographs on the steps overlooking the tomb, which has provided a final resting place for several of America’s unidentified service members — and a site of reflection and mourning — since 1921. Members of the group could be heard chuckling and chatting as they ascended the steps.

The sentinel — a member of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Regiment, known as The Old Guard — stepped forward and shouted in their direction:

“All visitors will maintain an atmosphere of silence and respect at all times!”

Video of the encounter, which followed the annual Veterans Day wreath-laying ceremony, spread quickly online.

On Wednesday evening, Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell issued a statement saying the soldier had acted appropriately.

“While commemorating this solemn day, a soldier correctly and respectfully reminded everyone to maintain decorum,” Parnell said.

Joint Service Commendation Medals are awarded to members of the Armed Forces who distinguish themselves while serving in a joint activity or on joint military staff.