Soldiers assign to the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment, "The Old Guard" Commander in Chief's Guard, perform at Mount Vernon in honor of George Washington's Birthday in Mount Vernon, Va. Feb. 16, 2026.
This feature commemorates the centennial of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier guard, marking 100 years since the first sentinel was posted March 26, 1926. The story traces the origins of the Unknown Soldier of World War I, the expansion of the tradition to honor unidentified service members from World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam, and the enduring mission of the Soldiers who maintain an unbroken vigil at Arlington National Cemetery.
Almost two years ago in May 2023, a 77-year legacy of service was halted due to the death of two horses within the Caisson Platoon, Mickey and Tony, after they passed due to intestinal compaction. News coverage, congressional meetings and public scrutiny unveiled a collection of underlying issues. This led to the closure of Caisson Detachment, formerly known as Caisson Platoon, as the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment “The Old Guard” worked to...
Almost two years ago in May 2023, a 77-year legacy of service was halted due to the death of two horses within the Caisson Platoon, Mickey and Tony, after they passed due to intestinal compaction. News coverage, congressional meetings and public scrutiny unveiled a collection of underlying issues. This led to the closure of Caisson Detachment, formerly known as Caisson Platoon, as the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment “The Old Guard” worked to...
