A US Army sentinel sharply reminded Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and several aides to maintain silence and respect during a Veterans Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery on Wednesday.
Incident at the Tomb
According to video captured by television news pools, Hegseth was walking with his wife Jennifer, chief of staff Ricky Buria, deputy chief of staff Patrick Weaver, and senior adviser Tami Radabaugh up the steps leading to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier after posing for photographs. A laugh is audible in the recording, prompting the guard to shout: 'All visitors will maintain an atmosphere of silence and respect at all times.'
Hegseth looked over his shoulder toward the sentinel as he continued moving forward, according to the footage.
Official Response
Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell stated in a public message that 'The secretary and the entire department have always honored – and will always honor – the sacrifices our military men and women have made to keep America safe.' He added that 'While commemorating this solemn day, a soldier correctly and respectfully reminded everyone to maintain decorum.'
Criticism from Political Figures
Former Republican Congressman Adam Kinzinger described the incident as 'truly abhorrent' and condemned Hegseth for his behavior. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote: 'Pete Hegseth doesn’t know how to conduct himself, even at The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. His behavior is unbecoming of any visitor to the Tomb, let alone that which comes from a Secretary of Defense.'
Kinzinger added in a video clip accompanying his statement: 'Everything is a show to him. Everything to him is about attention … He is completely unqualified for the job.'
He further said he could not imagine taking a photograph at the memorial — much less talking or laughing — and commended the sentinel guard for upholding protocol. 'It’s very embarrassing for [Hegseth], and at the same time I’m very proud of the fact that our country held those rules, even in the face of the secretary of defense,' Kinzinger stated.
The Site and Its Significance
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery marks the final resting place of an unidentified service member killed during World War I. Since 1948, a soldier from the 3rd US Infantry Regiment – known as the Old Guard – has guarded the site continuously, regardless of weather or conditions.
Staff Sgt Chadwick Winget, relief commander for the guard unit, said visitors rarely disrupt the solemnity intentionally but that sentinels are always prepared to respond when rules are violated. On average, guards address noisy groups two to three times per day, he noted. 'It’s usually just them being oblivious,' Winget explained. 'They’re talking and not realizing how loud they’re being, or laughing or making jokes amongst their group. It detracts from other people trying to pay their respects.'
Political Context
The incident occurred just one day after a failed impeachment effort against Hegseth in Congress. A vote of 211–204 blocked the motion by House Republicans, who rejected allegations that Hegseth had repeatedly violated constitutional norms through his handling of conflicts such as those involving Iran.
These accusations were first raised by Republican Congressman Thomas Massie in September, who proposed impeaching Hegseth over claims including civilian deaths in Iran, unauthorized military operations in Venezuela and Yemen, and retaliatory actions against Democratic senators.
Democratic minority leader Hakeem Jeffries has supported calls for impeachment, accusing Hegseth of 'undermining America’s national security.'
Conclusion
The incident at the Tomb reflects broader tensions surrounding Hegseth's leadership style and public conduct. While no formal charges have been made or proven, critics argue that his behavior during a solemn ceremony undermines institutional norms and public trust. The US Army guard remains committed to enforcing protocols, regardless of rank or position.