The Old Guard honored by Legion

The American Legion today presented its highest honor to those tasked with guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier during the Legion’s 98th National Convention in Cincinnati. American Legion National Commander Dale Barnett presented the U.S. Army’s 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, more popularly known as The Old Guard, with the Legion’s Distinguished Service Medal.

“The meticulous soldiers of The Old Guard always stand watch over the Tomb of the Unknowns – 24/7 in extreme heat, cold, rain, wind and snow,” Barnett said. “It is my pleasure to present The American Legion Distinguished Service Medal to the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment.”

The Army’s oldest active-duty infantry unit, The Old Guard is the Army's official ceremonial unit and escort to the president, and also provides security for Washington, D.C., in time of national emergency or civil disturbance. The unit served in combat roles covering the Indian Wars, the War of 1812, the Civil War, the Spanish-American War, the Philippine Insurrection, World War II, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan.

“Members of The Old Guard are part of a legacy dating back to 1784 … but current mission is to honor our fallen and represent the Army to the nation,” Regiment Commander Col. Jason T. Garkey said. “Receiving this honor from this distinguished organization is truly humbling.”

The Distinguished Service Medal is presented annually during The American Legion National Convention. Recent recipients include former Department of Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel, former U.S. Air Force trauma surgeon Dr. Donald H. Jenkins, the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders and former Sen. Richard Lugar.