Can anyone share their experience/opinion of the Old Guard? Looking into submitting my packet. Thanks

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 06 Jul 2016 10:20:20 -0400

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Jul 6 at 2016 10:34 AM

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Wed, 06 Jul 2016 10:34:05 -0400

SSG James J. Palmer IV aka "JP4" or
SSG Carlos Madden can you tag Old Guard in this thread? Might help get it to the right members. Thanks!

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Jul 6 at 2016 11:14 AM

LTC Stephen C. — Wed, 06 Jul 2016 11:14:19 -0400

I never served in the Old Guard, CPT Private RallyPoint Member, but I had this extraordinary experience with the Old Guard, and I've never forgotten it.
While working at NCS headquarters in Arlington, VA (MAY97), I drove over to Fort Myer about lunchtime. The Caisson Platoon was rehearsing at the Old Post Chapel. They were dressed in BDUs. After loading the (empty) coffin on the caisson, rather than continue east through the gate onto Arlington National Cemetery, they made a U turn in the chapel parking lot in order to remain on post. I was in a Class B green uniform, standing under a tree at the edge of the parking lot, and was the sole observer. As the caisson rolled by, the NCOIC (individually mounted) rendered a slow hand salute. I tardily realized the salute was for me and then quickly returned it. It was most impressive. I came away with the impression that the Old Guard NEVER MISSES, even when rehearsing! I was standing near this spot, but further back at the edge of the parking lot, under a tree.

Response by 1LT Susan Bailey made Jul 6 at 2016 1:14 PM

1LT Susan Bailey — Wed, 06 Jul 2016 13:14:29 -0400

These guys (and gals) are exceptional on and off duty. I've seen them many times in action and they attend to every little detail. There is much time spent on perfecting drill and ceremony and it shows. I've been to two military funerals there and I cannot imagine a better experience for the mourners than the honor and discipline they brought to those occasions. If you are selected, than you will be amongst some of the most superior soldiers I have ever had the luck of being around. They are single minded about the task at hand and do it better than anyone.

Response by LTC Victor Badami made Jul 6 at 2016 2:32 PM

LTC Victor Badami — Wed, 06 Jul 2016 14:32:57 -0400

Never served in the Old Guard but have been in DC since 2000 and been to many ceremonies. The Old Guard is a well respected unit. Good luck.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Jul 6 at 2016 8:44 PM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Wed, 06 Jul 2016 20:44:55 -0400

9 Months living at Ft Myers, Washington, DC with the Old Guard. Nothing but Fond Memories of the Place. Great Pizza Joint Pub in the basement of the Barracks I was in. Next Barracks over was the Old Guard Lounge and it was a great place to meet some Neat Old Soldiers and if you want to see Military Pomp and Ceremony that is the Place.