Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

This is another email which I though was interesting. I checked on break the chain and found some parts to be untrue (which I ommitted from this post.)
Many of our service men and women are going through hard times now so we might do what we can to remember them.

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

1. How many steps does the guard take during his walk across the
tomb of the Unknowns and why?
21 steps. It alludes to the twenty-one gun salute, which is the
highest honor given any military or foreign dignitary.
2. How long does he hesitate after his about face to begin his
return walk and why?
21 seconds for the same reason as answer number 1.

3. Why are his gloves wet?
His gloves are moistened to prevent his losing his grip on the rifle.
4. Does he carry his rifle on the same shoulder all the times and if not, why not?

He carries the rifle on the shoulder away from the tomb.
After his march across the path, he executes an about face
and moves the rifle to the outside shoulder.


The shoes are specially made with very thick soles to keep the heat
and cold from their feet. There are metal heel plates that extend to the
top of the shoe in order to make the loud click as they come to a halt.
members assigned the duty of guarding the Tomb

There is lots of information out there, here is someplace to start!
http://www.arlingtoncemetery.net/tombofun.htm