Walter Reed patients join Soldiers from The Old Guard in honoring the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Spc. Nancy Van Der Weide
Posted on 03/30/2006 5:14:10 PM PST by SandRat
FORT MYER, Va. (Army News Service, March 29, 2006) – Twenty four Walter Reed Army Medical Center patients who were injured in the Global War on Terrorism were honored by the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) March 24.
The Old Guard gave the patients a tour of Arlington National Cemetery, where they also conducted a wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Spc. Noah Bailey said he was happy to see so many servicemen and women showing their support at the Tomb.
“It felt good to get all that attention from other military members,” said Bailey, who was with the 173rd Airborne Brigade based out of Vicenza, Italy.
Later at Fort Myer’s Conmy Hall, the patients were treated to an Army full-honor review ceremony.
The Fife and Drum Corps kicked off the review, with the Army Drill Team following. The Drill Team dazzled spectators with such signature moves as “The Fan” and a maneuver that involves tossing a rifle 15 feet in the air from the front to the rear of a moving formation.
Col. Bob Pricone, regimental commander of The Old Guard, thanked the patients for their selfless service.
“Our Soldiers want you to know we have the utmost respect and admiration for your bravery and commitment," he said.
The personal escort for the president of the United States, the Old Guard conducts ceremonies for heads of state and foreign dignities, as well as for fallen comrades at Arlington National Cemetery.
“But today,” Pricone said, “the Soldiers and leaders of The Old Guard and the United States Army Band pay special recognition and honor to you, our wounded warriors.”
(Editor’s note: Spc. Brian K. Parker is with the Old Guard Public Affairs Office.)
Their so young.
Thanks for the post of some of America's finest.
Ping TX
They fought to keep the USA safe. NOT MERELY, to interfere in another country's business.
See them and their sacrifices for AMERICA's safety. We AMERICANS have enough to do, just to protect AMERICA from terrorists.
GOD BLESS THESE NOBLE AMERICAN HEROES!!
YOUNG and WODERFUL!!
THEY ARE WONDERFUL... can't see too good right now...
PING... bring a handkerchief...
I spent 3 1/2 years in the Old Guard and never did anything this cool.
Words can't describe for me right now. Having some trouble seeing right now, too.
BTTT
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