What is unique about the Old Guard that you wouldn't know unless you went there?

2020-09-18T09:45:55-04:00

Asking for a battle who refuses to get a RallyPoint. He recently got an email that said he positively screened for the Old Guard, and he is interested in applying. I wanted to get him some answers from people who have been there, maybe a seasoned NCO or two, who know specifics about post, the location, daily life, and anything else that may apply with relation to things you wouldn't know unless you had actually experienced it.

Response by SFC Steven Borders made Sep 18 at 2020 10:22 AM

2020-09-18T10:22:29-04:00

Only thing I tell tell you about the Base is that it is right next to DC, I had to out processes there. Sucked driving from JBAB to Fort Myer/Henderson Hall. I saw those guys out there everyday practicing. A few that I got to talk to at BLC said you cannot drink, and once fitted for your uniform you cannot get it altered and must retain the same weight. That's about all I can tell you.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 18 at 2020 11:59 AM

2020-09-18T11:59:22-04:00

Tell your friend to start looking here

https://www.oldguard.mdw.army.mil/

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 18 at 2020 2:56 PM

2020-09-18T14:56:08-04:00

My two cents from my time in Washington DC working for Coast Guard Decedent Affairs and interfacing/coordinating with Arlington National Cemetery operations...
1. Must be able to deal with metropolitan Washington, DC traffic congestion/situations.
2. Must be comfortable spending much time in a cemetery environment.
3. Must be comfortable being at the center of everyone's attention.

Response by MAJ Byron Oyler made Sep 18 at 2020 6:17 PM

2020-09-18T18:17:06-04:00

Tell your friend to suck it up and do their own research. If you cannot lead from the front in learning for yourself then you are not a leader and worthy of the Old Guard.

Response by SSG Tony Hebb made Sep 18 at 2020 11:36 PM

2020-09-18T23:36:50-04:00

If your friend really wants to be a member of the prestigious 3rd US Infantry Regiment, The Old Guard. he really should do his own research. While assigned to The Pentagon I lived in a barracks that was part of The Old Guard. This was 30 years ago so take it for what's that's worth, his main role will be performing funeral services for veterans and active duty KIAs. What I remember is his 1SGT will assign him to a Platoon that specializes in 1 of 3 specialties, casket baring, 7 gun salute, or honor team, carrying the colors. Train everyday in that area of speciality, if not on funeral detail. Each company other than E and HHC are assigned a former president for their funeral detail.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Sep 19 at 2020 9:40 AM

2020-09-19T09:40:44-04:00

If he is shy about researching he may be to meek for the strenuous part of this job. It is multifaceted representing the. Action daily. They need go getters not back seat drivers. Oh yes, and they still deploy when the Nation calls.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Sep 19 at 2020 5:46 PM

2020-09-19T17:46:24-04:00

I know a few- STRAC impressive troops, each one, It is hard to get in, they are dedicated beyond the norm. If picked to be one- you will look/be sharp- precise at all times. They will their beat, 24-7 ( on their shifts of course), regardless on weather, etc.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made Jan 13 at 2022 2:29 PM

2022-01-13T14:29:34-05:00

Having had the pleasure of observing the process while I was still on active duty, it was truly amazing. The level of mental and physical control is astounding. There is a small arms room and CTV set up inside the structure. The OG goes through a rigorous pregame inspection and then heads out to perform ther duties. The NCOIC monitors every move to ensure to account for any of the most subtle errors that others would not normally see. These men and women are amazing Soldiers. Let’s not forget that they continue to sustain their MOS related skill sets. HOOAH!!!