A sharp command at America\u2019s most solemn military memorial has put Pete Hegseth under fire. After laughter was heard from his entourage at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a guard demanded silence, and a Vietnam veteran delivered a blistering response. Even a medal for that soldier could not quiet the backlash over power, dignity, and basic human resp\u2026 Continues\u2026<\/p>\n
Pete Hegseth\u2019s visit to Arlington National Cemetery drew criticism after laughter from someone in his group prompted a sentinel\u2019s warning: \u201cAll visitors will maintain an atmosphere of silence and respect at all times!\u201d Hegseth subsequently awarded a medal to the guard, Specialist Thomas Iglesias. But the recognition did not resolve objections over the incident or the reported absence of a public apology. The tomb\u2019s sentinels maintain their vigil around the clock, honoring fallen American service members whose identities remain unknown.<\/p>\n
Speaking to CNN, Vietnam War veteran Michael Lemmon praised the soldier for fulfilling his duty and condemned what he called an \u201cAnimal House\u201d mentality under Hegseth\u2019s leadership. He described Arlington as \u201csacred ground\u201d and argued that senior officials should understand its significance. Lemmon also accused Hegseth of damaging military morale, comparing him to \u201ca juvenile finally, with power and not being able to restrain himself.\u201d His criticism extended well beyond the cemetery encounter.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"