Micro studio picture of The Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Identification Badge on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Va., Feb 06, 2025.
Intentionally and intricately crafted, The Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Identification Badge is one of the rarest military awards, with only 732 soldiers having earned the badge to date. The first recipient of the badge was William Daniel, a former prisoner of war and a dedicated sentinel, whose legacy is remembered at Arlington National Cemetery, where he is laid to rest near the Tomb he once guarded.
The roughly two inches in diameter, sterling silver badge features an inverted wreath, symbolizing mourning, and an image of the East face of the Tomb. The Tomb’s carvings of Peace, Valor, and Victory are prominently displayed, with the words "Honor Guard" inscribed beneath.
To earn the Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Identification Badge, Soldiers must serve for at least 9 months as members of the Honor Guard; train and complete a series of 5 test assessing their uniform, performance and knowledge; and lastly, receive a recommendation from their commanding officer. The training lasts 6-9 months and Soldiers are only allowed one retest per test before being removed if they fail. The badge is awarded by the Commanding Officer of the 4th Battalion, 3rd U.S. Infantry, by Army regulations.
U.S. Army Photo by Christopher Grey
Date Taken: | 02.06.2025 |
Date Posted: | 03.12.2025 20:07 |
Photo ID: | 8903227 |
VIRIN: | 250206-A-II664-1001 |
Resolution: | 7290x4844 |
Size: | 21.9 MB |
Location: | JOINT BASE MYER-HENDERSON HALL, VIRGINIA, US |
Web Views: | 30 |
Downloads: | 1 |
This work, The Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Identification Badge, by SGT Christopher Grey, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.