The True Meaning of Dedication

HERE RESTS IN HONORED GLORY AN AMERICAN SOLDIER KNOWN BUT TO GOD! The Tomb Of The Unknowns is located at the center of the Arlington National Cemetery and is the United States most visited tourist attraction. The Tomb contains remains of unknown American Soldiers from World Wars I and II, the Korean Conflict, and the Vietnam War. Each was presented the Medal of Honor at the time interment and the Medals as well as the burial flags are on display inside the Memorial Ampitheater, directly to the rear of the Tomb. The Tomb is guarded 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, no matter what the weather conditions, by specially trained men of the 3rd Infantry Division (known as The Old Guard or TOG). These soldiers are also responsible for serving at all official ceremonies at the White House, the Pentagon, and National Memorials else where in the Nations Capital. The TOG participates in more than 6000 ceremonies at an average of 16 per day. The soldiers of this unit are constantly trained in Military Customs, Ceremony Procedures, and as Military Policemen. They are also the President's Honor Guard. TOG is a fully functional infantry unit and consists of 3 active battalions; 2 at Ft. Myer, VA; and 1 at Ft. Lewis, WA. While members of the TOG are performing duties at the Tomb, they remain at the quarters provided near the site and are on duty in sickness and in health, in all kinds of adverse weather conditions, 24-7 around the clock, working in shifts, with a high degree of motivation and dedication! During the daytime with the crowds and during the nightime in the quiet, lonely, darkness. Their creed is simply this: My dedication to this sacred duty is total and wholehearted. In the responsibility bestowed on me never will I falter. With dignity and perseverance my standard will remain perfection. Through the years of diligence and praise and the discomfort of the elements, I will walk my tour in humble reverence to the best of my ability. It is he who commands the respect I protect. His bravery that made us so proud. Surrounded by well meaning crowds by day, alone in the thoughtful peace of night, this soldier will in honored glory rest under my eternal vigilance. I think this pretty much says it all....by the way....these men all volunteer for this duty, it has never been an assignment!