Phil and Ross drove to the officers’ quarters, where Ross helped him unload his bags. Then it was off for a quick tour of the post and Arlington Cemetery, ending up at the Tomb of the Unknowns.[1]

They were met and shown the underground facilities below the tombs by two members of Ross’ guard platoon: Sergeant George H. Waple, III, and Private Pasquale “Pat” Varalla, both in full dress uniform.

When Phil commented on their snappy appearance, Waple said, “We are probably the sharpest unit in the U.S. Army at this time, sir.”

Varalla added, “Complete spit and polish at all times, sir.”

Ross looked at his watch. “It’s about time for the next ceremony.”

Once upstairs, Phil saw that quite a crowd had gathered around the tomb.

Beyond the cemetery, Memorial Bridge and the District of Columbia perched at their feet. Below them lay a large marble sarcophagus with a single soldier marching back and forth on a long mat.

His rifle rested on his shoulder as he slowly paced back and forth. Tourists wandered around the tomb, snapping photographs.

“Once a recruit is chosen,” Sergeant Waple explained, “they undergo an intense two-week training period, in which they must pass tests on weapons, ceremonial steps, cadence, military bearing, uniform preparation, and orders.

“Although we as military members are known for our neat uniforms, the Tomb Guards have the highest standards of them all. If a trainee fails any test, they are assigned back to their company.

“In fact, let’s test our private. So, Varalla, what’s the mission of the Tomb guards?”

Private Varalla pulled himself to attention, puffed out his chest, and barked, “Sergeant Waple, the mission of the Tomb platoon is this: We are responsible for maintaining the highest standards and traditions of the United States Army and this Nation while keeping a constant vigil at this National Shrine, and our special duty is to prevent any desecration or disrespect directed toward the Tomb.”

“Perfect!” crowed Waple, obviously proud of his charge. “Our goal as trainers is not to make our trainees as good as we are, but to make them better.”

Waple pointed to the guard. “Note the cadence, Captain. We practice our steps with a metronome, set to ninety beats per minute, the tempo of a slow march. After the cemetery closes, groups of trainees will walk the steps over and over. Perfection is the standard.”

“How come the soldier walking the mat doesn’t wear rank insignia?” Phil asked.

“It’s on purpose,” Ross said. “We don’t want the sentinel to appear to outrank the Unknown, whatever his rank may have been.”

(TO BE CONTINUED TOMORROW)

~~~~~

[1] Larimore, At First Light, 310.

[2] Larimore, At First Light, 310-311.

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December 24, 1945M