US defense chief awards medal to soldier who rebuked his team at Arlington cemetery - Anadolu Ajansı

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth gave a medal on Thursday to the army sentinel who publicly rebuked him and his aides at Arlington National Cemetery.

“We love soldiers. We love standards. Well done, Specialist,” Hegseth wrote on US social media platform X. “Carry on Patriots.”

A Pentagon official told CNN that Hegseth hosted the 3rd US Infantry Regiment, known as The Old Guard, at the Pentagon, “where he proudly awarded Specialist (Thomas) Iglesias the Joint Service Commendation Medal for the execution of his duties at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on November 11, 2026.”

Members of Hegseth’s group were heard laughing Wednesday after they took photos in front of the tomb following a Veterans Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. Iglesias stopped his patrol and turned to face them.

“All visitors will maintain an atmosphere of silence and respect at all times,” he called out.

Hegseth was with his wife, chief of staff Ricky Buria, deputy chief of staff Patrick Weaver and senior adviser Tami Radabaugh.

Chief Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said Wednesday that the soldier “correctly and respectfully reminded everyone to maintain decorum.”