Posted by A Foo from Canada on May 25, 2021 at 21:26:07:
In Reply to: Sentries for Unknown Soldier posted by Soldier Grrrl on May 24, 2021 at 19:13:15:
I too support the idea (which by no means is an "American" idea, and don't know where that came from.) and think it is an extremely moving memorial. People who see it will be deeply moved by what it represents. I also believe that there should be sentries on it 24 and 7, but I'm pretty sure there won't be.
First of all, the government can't afford it. Second - who would be picked to do it? The natural choice should be the GGFG, but due to inter - regimental politics and petty bickering, they won't. Perhaps an ideal plan would be to have a different unit provide sentries a month at a time, with the details of the unit posted somewhere nearby the site. I think that's the only way it would fly.
Think about it. Look about the gripes already being posted on this page about the kind of truck being used and that the RCMP are involved. There is just no way that you will please everyone who wants to be involved in this.
Now, remember, that primarily this whole idea has been organized by DND's Directorate of History and Heritage. I know that some of those involved in organizing this have regimental ties which could cause some eyebrows to be raised if certain units were excluded from ceremonies while others are included. Anyone who knows the two infantry regiments in Ottawa, and some of the names that work at DHH, will understand what I mean. For that reason, the ceremonies around this entombment will be pretty media friendly and "politically correct" or "inter -regimentally correct". Remember, those who organise have jobs to do, want to come off shining and not jeopardize future career opportunities.
I hate to be a skeptic, but I do have my opinions. It's too bad, because I really think that the idea of having the Guards provide sentries on the tomb would be appropriate.
Anyway, that's this gunner's opinion. At the very least, let's all appreciate what this tomb means to all soldiers, past and present, and try to leave petty opinions about this great idea out of it.