Drabble Writing Prompt | Random Word | Memorial Day | US Army

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Random Word Drabble Challenge Day 145 Word is Act

Stephen Dalton
3 min readMay 25, 2024

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The Old Guard marching in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
The Old Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier — Lawrence OP — Flickr free picture.

This drabble is NOT a work of fiction; therefore, I will self-publish. It’s still exactly 100 words, no more, no less. I hope you enjoy it. Please scroll and read for at least 30 seconds. Claps, highlights, and comments are optional but very appreciated.

The act of taking 21 steps before pausing, making an about-face, and marching 21 steps in the opposite direction by the Sentinels at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington is as deliberate as it is methodical.

Everything about the Honor Guard is measured. Men must be at least 5’ 10” and women at least 5’ 8.” These volunteers are the Army’s elite.

Their uniform and appearance are inspected before each shift and are immaculate. 24/7/365 days a year — rain, sleet, or snow, you’ll see them out there, honoring those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

I could have provided a fiction story about these elite Soldiers, but I thought it more important to tell you a few facts about the Old Guard, who must know the exact location of more than 300 of America’s heroes before they walk these hallowed grounds. Happy Memorial

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Stephen Dalton

Stephen Dalton is a retired US Army First Sergeant with a degree in journalism from the University of Maryland. Top Writer in Investing, Business, & Bitcoin!