Maintain Silence: Hegseth Laughs At War Memorial, Soldier Steps In To School Pentagon Chief

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth was reminded of military discipline by a soldier at one of America's most sacred war memorials after members of his entourage were asked to maintain silence during a Veterans Day visit.

Hegseth joined President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance and other senior officials at Arlington National Cemetery on November 11 for a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The day honours America's fallen service members as well as those who are still serving.

However, the solemn ceremony took an awkward turn when Hegseth and members of his team stopped to take photographs on the steps near the tomb. A soldier on guard promptly instructed the group to maintain silence and respect at the memorial.

The soldier was enforcing a strict rule at the site, which is guarded around the clock by the US Army's 3rd Infantry Regiment, known as the Old Guard. Its sentinels stand watch 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in all weather conditions. The assignment is among the most prestigious and demanding duties in the US military. The rules apply to everyone, including senior government officials.

Hegseth and his entourage eventually left after the soldier's firm reminder. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said the soldier had correctly and respectfully reminded everyone to maintain decorum. He added that Hegseth and the Defence Department honour the sacrifices of American service members. However, Democratic Congresswoman Gwen Moore criticised the incident, accusing Hegseth of showing contempt for military personnel and questioning his fitness for office.

The episode comes as Hegseth faces mounting pressure over his leadership following the Democrats' midterm victory and their takeover of both chambers of Congress. His strong support for the US military offensive against Iran has drawn criticism, with opponents linking the campaign to the Republicans' losses. Calls for his impeachment have also emerged, although House Republicans rejected the effort.

Trump has continued to stand by Hegseth. At the Veterans Day event, he praised the secretary while defending the US campaign against Iran, saying Washington would ensure Tehran never gets a nuclear weapon.

A day earlier, Hegseth dismissed the impeachment effort as a political spectacle, arguing that it would send the wrong message to America's enemies by punishing officials for carrying out lawful military operations.

The Arlington incident has added another uncomfortable moment to an already turbulent week for the Pentagon chief.