A video showing Pete Hegseth’s group being reminded to observe silence at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier has drawn widespread attention. Vietnam veteran Michael Lemmon has now criticized the defense secretary, describing his behavior as “juvenile.”
Hegseth visited Arlington National Cemetery on Wednesday with his wife, Jennifer, and members of his team, including chief of staff Ricky Buria, deputy chief of staff Patrick Weaver and senior adviser Tami Radabaugh.
After the group posed for photos near the Tomb, laughter and conversation could be heard. A sentinel on duty turned toward them and called out: “All visitors will maintain an atmosphere of silence and respect at all times!”
The Tomb is guarded around the clock by soldiers from the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, known as The Old Guard. Their duty is to honor service members who died in military service and whose remains were never identified. Visitors are expected to maintain a respectful atmosphere at the memorial.
The exchange was captured on video and prompted criticism online. On Thursday, Hegseth presented the sentinel, Specialist Thomas Iglesias, with a medal for carrying out his duties.
Vietnam veteran criticizes Hegseth
Speaking on CNN, Lemmon praised Iglesias for enforcing the rules and criticized the atmosphere surrounding Hegseth’s visit.
“My first reaction was, God bless that soldier for doing his duty,” Lemmon said. He added that the incident reminded him of what he called an “Animal House” mentality within the Pentagon.
Lemmon said visitors should understand the importance of being quiet and respectful at the Tomb and across Arlington National Cemetery, which he described as sacred ground.
He also said the cemetery represents a deep connection between veterans and the government, and argued that Hegseth’s leadership has harmed the military’s morale as well as its capabilities.
“I’ve got lots of friends who are still serving, as well as many retired,” Lemmon said. “The rot is beginning to spread.”
Lemmon concluded by calling Hegseth “a juvenile finally, with power and not being able to restrain himself.”
The incident and Hegseth’s decision to award Iglesias have continued to fuel debate about the visit and the expectations of conduct at one of the nation’s most solemn memorials.