The oldest active-duty infantry unit in the Army and the nation's premier ceremonial unit. Official escort to the President and guardians of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Official Escort Since 1784
Oldest Active Infantry Regiment
The Old Guard's unwavering commitment to honor, precision, and service
Maintain a 24-hour vigil at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, representing the highest honor in military ceremonial duty. Each sentinel embodies precision, dedication, and respect for fallen heroes.
Official ceremonial unit and escort to the President of the United States, performing for dignitaries and heads of state at the highest levels of government and international ceremonies.
Provide military funeral escorts at Arlington National Cemetery, ensuring every fallen service member receives the honor and dignity they deserve in their final rest.
Internationally acclaimed precision drill performances showcasing military excellence
Historic Military Equipment
The Old Guard Drill Team performs intricate drill movements using authentic bayonet-tipped 1903 Springfield rifles, the same weapons that served America's forces in two world wars. Each rifle weighs approximately 8.5 pounds and requires exceptional skill to manipulate with precision.
Global Ambassadors
Travel extensively as "good-will ambassadors" for the U.S. Army, performing precision drill exhibitions that showcase American military excellence to international audiences and support Army recruitment efforts worldwide.
Five distinctive units within The Old Guard, each with unique ceremonial responsibilities
Elite honor guard unit that presents the nation's colors at the most prestigious ceremonies, embodying the history and traditions of American military service with impeccable precision and reverence.
Ceremonial artillery unit responsible for firing cannon salutes during state visits, military funerals, and presidential ceremonies, maintaining traditions dating back to early American military customs.
Horse-drawn caisson team that provides final honors for military funerals at Arlington National Cemetery, maintaining a living connection to military traditions spanning centuries.
Revolutionary War-era musicians wearing authentic colonial uniforms, bringing America's founding military traditions to life through historical musical performances and ceremonies.
Elite guards who maintain the eternal vigil at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, representing all unknown fallen service members with unwavering dedication and flawless ceremonial precision.
The precision drill unit that performs complex formations and rifle movements with bayonet-tipped Springfield rifles. Their performances demonstrate the discipline, teamwork, and excellence that define the U.S. Army while inspiring audiences worldwide.
"The precision and esprit de corps these units display are part of the same excellence that makes their precision drill work so exceptional."
From the founding of our nation to today's ceremonies, The Old Guard has never wavered
Oldest active infantry regiment in the U.S. Army
Continuous vigil at Tomb of Unknown Soldier since 1937
Ceremonial duties regardless of weather conditions
Eternal commitment to fallen heroes and national service
The rigorous training and unwavering standards that define The Old Guard
Soldiers must meet the highest physical fitness standards and maintain impeccable military bearing. Height requirements ensure uniformity in formations, while endurance training enables long ceremonial duties.
Months of intensive training develop the muscle memory and coordination required for flawless drill movements. Every step, rifle movement, and formation change is rehearsed to perfection.
Deep understanding of military traditions, protocol, and the historical significance of each ceremony ensures appropriate reverence and respect in all performances.
Performances for foreign dignitaries strengthen international relationships and showcase American military excellence.
Public performances inspire young Americans to consider military service and demonstrate Army values in action.
Bridge between military and civilian communities, fostering understanding and appreciation for military service.
The Old Guard's induction into the Drill Hall of Fame recognizes their unparalleled contributions to precision drill, ceremonial excellence, and the preservation of military traditions. Their influence extends far beyond competition, inspiring drill teams worldwide to pursue the highest standards of discipline, precision, and honor.
Setting the gold standard for precision and military bearing
Representing America's finest military traditions worldwide
Unwavering dedication to honoring fallen heroes
"The precision and esprit de corps these units display are part of the same excellence that makes their precision drill work so exceptional."
Continuing the mission with the same dedication as their predecessors
In addition to ceremonial duties, The Old Guard provides security for Washington, D.C., during times of national emergency or civil disturbance, maintaining readiness to protect the nation's capital.
Each soldier undergoes rigorous training to meet The Old Guard's exacting standards. The selection process and ongoing training ensure only the finest representatives of the U.S. Army serve in these prestigious roles.