Old Guard (United States)

Old Guard (United States) is the popular name for the 3rd United States Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), the oldest active-duty infantry unit in the United States Army. It is renowned for its ceremonial duties in the Washington, D.C. area, most notably providing the United States Army Honor Guard and maintaining a constant vigil at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. The regiment combines its high-profile public mission with combat readiness, serving as a quick-reaction force for the National Capital Region.

History

The regiment was originally constituted in 1784 as the First American Regiment following the American Revolutionary War, making it the first peacetime standing army unit in the new nation. It fought in the Northwest Indian War under General Josiah Harmar and later under General Anthony Wayne at the Battle of Fallen Timbers. During the War of 1812, it participated in the Battle of Lundy's Lane and the Siege of Fort Erie. The unit earned its "Old Guard" moniker during the Mexican–American War for its steadfast performance at the Battle of Monterrey, a name later cemented by its defensive stand at the Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War. In the 20th century, it saw combat in the Philippines during the Spanish–American War, in the Pacific Theater in World War II, and in the Korean War and Vietnam War. Its modern ceremonial role was formally established after World War II, with its headquarters moving to Fort Myer, adjacent to Arlington National Cemetery.

Organization and duties

The regiment is headquartered at Fort Myer, Virginia, and consists of several distinct companies and specialty units. Its primary elements include the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier sentinels, the Continental Color Guard, the U.S. Army Caisson Platoon, and the Commander-in-Chief's Guard, which recreates the uniform of the First American Regiment. The regiment also provides military funeral escorts at Arlington National Cemetery, full-honors arrivals for visiting foreign dignitaries at the White House or the Pentagon, and security for the Washington, D.C. area in times of national emergency. It maintains a deployable infantry battalion ready for worldwide missions, as demonstrated during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Traditions and customs

The Old Guard is defined by its exacting standards and timeless traditions. Sentinels of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier follow a meticulous 21-step ritual, guarding the tomb 24 hours a day regardless of weather. The regiment's uniforms are distinctive, featuring buff straps on dress uniforms, a tradition dating to the American Civil War. The U.S. Army Caisson Platoon uses matched black horses to pull caissons during state funerals. A hallmark of its discipline is the silent, precise drill performed during ceremonies, where commands are given only by hand signals. The regiment also maintains the "Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps," which performs in Revolutionary War-era uniforms.

Notable members and commanders

Many distinguished soldiers have served in the regiment. Early commanders included future President Zachary Taylor and Civil War generals John F. Reynolds and George Sykes. Notable members from later eras include Creighton Abrams, who later commanded U.S. forces in the Vietnam War and became Army Chief of Staff, and H. Norman Schwarzkopf, who led coalition forces during the Gulf War. Sergeant William G. Windrich was awarded the Medal of Honor for actions during the Korean War while serving with the regiment.

In popular culture

The precision and solemnity of the Old Guard have been featured in numerous films and documentaries. It is prominently depicted in the movie "The Unknowns," a documentary detailing the selection and training of Tomb sentinels. Scenes featuring the regiment's ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery appear in films such as "The Pentagon Wars" and "A Few Good Men." The regiment is also frequently showcased in television coverage of state funerals, including those for Presidents John F. Kennedy, Ronald Reagan, and Gerald Ford, and during annual national events like the National Memorial Day Concert.

Category:1784 establishments in the United States Category:Infantry regiments of the United States Army Category:Units and formations of the United States Army in the American Civil War