Which U.S. Army unit guards the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier during Veterans Day ceremonies?

The 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, known as The Old Guard, guards the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier during Veterans Day ceremonies.

The regiment is the Army’s oldest active-duty infantry unit, with a lineage dating to 1784. Its ceremonial duties include guarding the Tomb at Arlington National Cemetery, providing military honors, and representing the Army at official events in the Washington area.

Tomb guards serve in the Tomb Guard Platoon and follow highly formal procedures. The sentry watches the Tomb continuously, including in severe weather, and the guard changes according to established ceremonial routines.

The regiment also performs operational military duties, so it is not merely a ceremonial organization. Its Tomb assignment is one of the most visible symbols of military respect associated with Veterans Day and other national observances.