Last Updated:November 13, 2026, 07:30 IST
The soldier, identified as Thomas Iglesias, had heard Hegseth’s team laughing and holding conversation at Arlington National Cemetery and had asked everyone to uphold discipline.
United States Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth on Thursday awarded a medal to the soldier who scolded him and his team for laughing and talking near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is a sacred burial place for troops killed in World War I, World War II and the Korean War.
Hegseth awarded a Joint Service Commendation Medal to the soldier for reprimanding him and members of his staff at the war memorial.
The soldier, identified as Thomas Iglesias, had heard Hegseth’s team laughing and holding conversation at Arlington National Cemetery and had asked everyone to uphold discipline.
Taking to X, Hegseth posted the images with the soldiers and wrote, “We love soldiers. We love standards. Well done, Specialist. Carry on Patriots."
Army Sentinel Scolds Pete Hegseth, His Team
Hegseth and members of his delegation were reminded to maintain silence and show respect at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery on Wednesday after laughter was heard from the group during a visit to the memorial.
A video of the incident showed an Army sentinel turning towards Hegseth’s delegation shortly after a woman in the group was heard laughing.
Also Read: ‘Maintain Silence…Pay Respect’: Army Sentinel Scolds Pete Hegseth’s Team After Laughter At Tomb Of The Unknowns
The guard then addressed the visitors in a loud voice, reminding them of the solemnity of the site as they made their way down the steps.
“All visitors will maintain an atmosphere of silence and respect at all times," the sentinel shouted.
Hegseth was accompanied by his wife, Jennifer Hegseth, and three advisers -Ricky Buria, Tami Radabaugh and Patrick Weaver.
The group had been taking photographs and talking near the memorial following the annual Veterans Day wreath-laying ceremony, which Hegseth attended alongside United States President Donald Trump.
The Tomb Of The Unknown Soldier
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is among the most solemn memorials at Arlington National Cemetery. It honours unidentified American military personnel who died in service, with three service members, including one from World War I, buried at the site.
The memorial is guarded round the clock by sentinels belonging to the 3rd US Infantry Regiment, popularly known as ‘The Old Guard’. Maintaining an uninterrupted watch over the tomb is considered a prestigious responsibility within the military unit, with the tradition stretching back nearly 90 years.
With inputs from Reuters
