Tomb of the Unknowns Guards Begin Use of Custom M17 Pistols

[hoya74]

Interesting story about new custom M17 pistols:

Tomb of the Unknowns Guards Begin Use of Custom M17 Pistols - Soldier Systems Daily

Information

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[browningautorifle]

Interesting looking pistols.

[Brit plumber]

A bit OTT in my opinion, I can appreciate the sentiment but I would personally prefer to see a well Maintained standard arm for the guards. I’ve never really gone for all the bling that finds itself attached to ceremonial guards etc.

A smart uniform, a well presented individual and maintained equipment is all that I need to see from a military guard.

[browningautorifle]

A bit OTT

Perhaps, yes.

[Mister Coffee]

A bit OTT in my opinion

You have a point. But the detail and thoughtfulness is notable. They did more than just slather the guns in fancy paint.

I object to the soldiers wearing sunglasses. I think that's disrespectful. But maybe it's just me.

[Brit plumber]

That’s kind of what I mean, if it was just the sidearms that are blinged I can kind of appreciate it but it’s the whole ensemble. These unknown soldiers were just that ‘Soldiers’ and the idea being that they were regular Joes and the unknown soldier could be anyone. The fact that an honour guard is present all the time is respectful enough for me.

It’s only my opinion of course and it shouldn’t detract from any nations memory to the dead.

[Roy W]

I have often watched the routines the guards go through. I can't help but think the whole thing is more set up for onlookers/tourists, than actually guarding the tomb.

The whole robotic inspection looks, IMHO, ridiculous. Why is there a need to inspect the rifle in public anyway? He's not inspecting it, he's going through a choreographed routine.

It adds nothing to the sentiment of why they are there, just adds to the public spectacle. Maybe it's my reserved British ways, who knows, but like someone else mentioned the sunglasses, it all seems a bit OTT

[hoya74]

Perhaps I can help some of our British and Canadian colleagues better understand why this retired American soldier appreciates the thoughtfulness that went into these pistols.

To many Americans, Arlington National Cemetery (ANC) is hallowed ground and honors the many sacrifices of generations of American soldiers. As a means of honoring those soldiers, various ceremonies are performed at ANC included the changing of the guard at the Tomb.

I believe the new Sig pistols as well as other ceremonial accoutrements of the Tomb Sentinels add to the honor and respect shown to the Unknowns and other American soldiers who have sacrificed so much for their fellow Americans as well as our allies around the world. 🇺🇸

[Daan Kemp]

Many countries have similar ceremonies for similar reasons. If you aren't or weren't military or lost a dear one or friend in the military, it is a tourist attraction. The effort going into the 'tourist attraction' will ensure the reason for the ceremony is kept alive long after most 'civilians' have forgotten why the ceremony is there.

OTT? Most military ceremonies are choreographed/rehearsed ad infinitum in any case.

[Roy W]

I didn't say I was right, it was just my opinion. The pistols are clearly a work of art.

please don't assume that, because we thought it OTT that we have neither been in the Armed Forces, nor lost close friends.