Hegseth and his party were scolded for chatting and laughing in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The next day they were personally awarded medals to commend the dedicated guards.

U.S. Defense Secretary Hegseth was scolded by an Army guard at Arlington National Cemetery outside Washington, D.C., on the 11th because he and his entourage were laughing and talking near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Hegseth awarded a medal to the soldier who scolded him on the 12th in recognition of his duties at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

According to the "AFP" report, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery is a cemetery for American soldiers who died in World War I, World War II and the Korean War. A video circulated on social media showed Hegseth and a group of people gathering for photos at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. After hearing laughter and conversation, an Army guard shouted, "All visitors must remain quiet and respectful at all times!"

CNN confirmed that those photographed with Hegseth include his wife Jennifer Hegseth, chief of staff Ricky Buria, deputy chief of staff Patrick Weaver and senior adviser Tami Radabaugh.

The soldiers who scolded Hegseth were awarded medals by Hegseth on the 12th. "Hegseth proudly presented the Joint Service Commendation Medal to Corporal Thomas Iglesias for his duties at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on November 11, 2026," a Pentagon official said.

Hegseth also shared a photo on X of him donning a medal and shaking hands with Iglesias. "We love our military. We value standards. Well done, Corporal," he said on X.

According to the Arlington National Cemetery website, the cemetery is guarded around the clock by soldiers who volunteer to serve as patrollers. These soldiers have undergone strict selection procedures and intensive training.