“All visitors must maintain an atmosphere of silence”: a guard scolds Pete Hegseth near the tomb of the Unknown Soldier in the United States

A guard sharply reprimanded US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and his companions on Wednesday, as they chatted and laughed near the tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery (east), in the middle of Veterans Day.

On a video broadcast by American media and on social networks, we can see Pete Hegseth and several people, including members of the minister's team, taking photos in front of this place of memory, following a ceremony in which President Donald Trump participated. “All visitors must maintain an atmosphere of silence and respect at all times!” said a soldier, after laughter and words emanating from the group.

A tribute to all fallen American soldiers

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier houses the remains of soldiers from the two world wars and the Korean War, but also an empty grave, originally occupied by a soldier who died during the Vietnam War, which pays tribute to all the soldiers who died while serving their country.

According to CNN, Pete Hegseth was with his wife Jennifer, his chief of staff, Ricky Buria, his deputy chief of staff, Patrick Weaver, and an advisor, Tami Radabaugh. Pentagon chief spokesperson Sean Parnell told NBC News that Pete Hegseth and his department have “always honored” the sacrifice of members of the US military. “As we commemorated this solemn day, a soldier correctly and respectfully reminded everyone to maintain decorum,” said Sean Parnell.

Pete Hegseth challenged even in the Republican Party

The Democratic camp quickly reacted to this gaffe, which occurred on such an important day for the American army. “Pete Hegseth continues to demonstrate his complete lack of aptitude for this position,” Gwen Moore, Wisconsin representative, wrote on the X platform.