The “Old Guard” Name
The 3rd Infantry Regiment gained its moniker for gallantry during the capture of Chapultepec in the Mexican War. As the unit passed in review, General Winfield Scott turned to his staff and ordered, “Gentlemen, take off your hats to The Old Guard of the Army.”
U.S. Army Crest
Horses and riders of The Old Guard Caisson Platoon pull a flag draped casket of a fallen comrade on a black artillery caisson, leading a burial detail to a place of final rest at The Arlington National Cemetery.
The Army’s First Regiment
The 3rd Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), is the U.S. Army’s oldest active regiment and is among its most prestigious. Established by General George Washington on June 3, 1784, it has since served the country with distinction, dedication and valor and has earned a singular place in our nation’s history.
The Old Guard
"The Spirit of America Pageant"
The Face of the U.S. Army
The Old Guard is the face of the U.S. Army at the inauguration of our Presidents and state funerals for our Commanders in Chief. The Presidential Salute Guns Battery greets the arrivals and departures of visiting heads-of-state and the U.S. Army Drill Team and Fife and Drum Corps entertain audiences all over the world.
Old Guard soldiers meet the caskets of fallen warriors at Dover AFB and solemnly escort the remains to waiting loved ones. Old Guard details provide military honors at Arlington National Cemetery for active duty soldiers, Army veterans, dependents and caisson support for the joint services. Nearby, Old Guard sentinels keep vigilant watch at the Tomb of the Unknowns, never deterred by the coming of night or the extremes of weather.
