What did Pete Hegseth's group do at Arlington? Tomb guard's sharp rebuke sparks questions - Watch Viral Video

In a very startling incident, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and his senior advisers got themselves into an embarrassing situation after being reprimanded by a military guard at Arlington National Cemetery during Veterans Day commemorations on Wednesday (November 11). The incident happened at the 'Tomb of the Unknown Soldier', one of America's most sacred military memorials, following a loud conversation by members of Hegseth's group. They were heard laughing and talking loudly. Within no time, the video that showed the guard giving strict warning to the group went viral on social media platforms. This incident took place when President Donald Trump was visiting Arlington to honor dead soldiers.

WHAT DID PETE HEGSETH AND HIS ADVISERS DO AT ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY?

Hegseth was spotted taking pictures on the stairs near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, with his wife, Jennifer, as well as other senior advisers who accompanied him. Chief of staff Ricky Buria, deputy chief of staff Patrick Weaver and senior adviser Tami Radabaugh accompanied Hegseth, reported AP.

As they were finishing up taking their photos, there came a loud laugh which caused the soldier protecting the tomb to act. The guard firmly told the group that "all visitors will maintain an atmosphere of silence and respect at all times."



The moment was captured on video and subsequently shared online, drawing attention to the strict rules of conduct at the memorial. The incident became too highlighted as it occurred just a day after Hegseth narrowly avoided impeachment in the House of Representatives.

PENTAGON RESPONDS AS VIDEO OF TOMB GUARD'S WARNING GOES VIRAL

Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell defended the department's dedication to paying its respects to its deceased personnel.

"While commemorating this solemn day, a soldier correctly and respectfully reminded everyone to maintain decorum," Parnell said as quoted by ARLnow.

"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," Parnell added.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is dedicated to the remains of unidentified American soldiers who fought in three wars. Since 1948, it has been guarded around-the-clock by soldiers belonging to the United States Army 3rd Infantry Regiment, known as 'The Old Guard'.

TRUMP PITCHES MASSIVE ARCH TO VETERANS AMID ARLINGTON CONTROVERSY

Meanwhile, Trump utilized his Veterans Day address to promote his planned triumphal arch that would be constructed at the Arlington National Cemetery.

"And soon we’re going to dedicate a magnificent triumphal arc to our veterans," Trump said.

The President called the initiative a tribute to America's military personnel. However, this initiative comes under attack due to legal threats by veterans groups, municipal officials, as well as members of the Kennedy clan.

According to ARLnow, a temporary ban on the construction was issued by a federal judge amid the ongoing legal battle. The two developments on the same day made the Veterans Day observance even more noticeable.