The Daily Caller recently had an opportunity to talk with the sentinels who guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier for 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

WATCH:

“Many people think that the ultimate sacrifice is giving up your life. But these soldiers gave up not only their lives but their identities,” Staff Sergeant Shane Vincent said.

“When you see a World War II veteran struggling to get out of his wheelchair so that he can stand during taps and salute during taps, that really hits home and lets you know exactly what this place really is about.”

The sentinels featured in the video also recited the Sentinel’s Creed:

My dedication to this sacred duty

is total and whole-hearted.

In the responsibility bestowed on me

never will I falter.

And with dignity and perseverance

my standard will remain perfection.

Through the years of diligence and praise

and the discomfort of the elements,

I will walk my tour in humble reverence

to the best of my ability.

It is he who commands the respect I protect,

his bravery that made us so proud.

Surrounded by well meaning crowds by day,

alone in the thoughtful peace of night,

this soldier will in honored glory rest

under my eternal vigilance.

– Simon 1971

On Memorial Day, we celebrate the men and women who have died serving in the United States military. God bless our heroes.

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