21 Steps by Carol Perkowski
As for you, brothers, do not grow weary in doing good. 2 Thessalonians 3:13 (ESV)
It was a good Memorial Day weekend but I couldn’t say happy Memorial Day as we remembered our fallen. It was a time of reflection for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. What about those who guard the tomb of the unknown? Do we ever think about them or realize their sacrifice and requirements to even be able to guard the tombs?
They must completely believe and focus on what they do. Are we that committed in our own faith? Could we carry out responsibilities whether hot/cold/rain/sleet/windy/ or any hazard of nature? Or do we find a flimsy excuse to dampen our waning desires? Many of us can’t even keep our attention on a 20-minute sermon.
These Sentinels hold no rank while guarding the tombs so as not to outrank the three unknown soldiers (one from WW1, one from WW2 and one from the Korean War). Tomb Sentinels stand two-hour watches in 24-hour shifts. In that time, they will repeatedly count to 21, which is representative of the 21-gun salute, the highest military honor given.
The guard’s motions are a seven-step process:
A 21-step march down the 63-foot-long black mat.
A turn toward the Tomb for 21 seconds
A turn and face the opposite direction of the mat, the weapon change to the outside shoulder, and a wait of 21 seconds.
March 21 steps down the mat.
Turn and face the tomb for 21 seconds.
Turn and face the opposite direction, weapon shifted to the outside shoulder, and wait of 21 seconds.
Repeat the routine until the soldier is relieved at the Changing of the Guard.
How easy it is to honor the unknown soldiers but we also need to remember the sentinels who symbolically stand guard to protect the fallen. The Sentinel’s average tour is 18 months and they never knew who they are guarding. The sacrifices that these guards are willing to make are tough ones for many. Click here If you would like to know more about their lifestyles
So many gave their lives for us but an even greater sacrifice was that of Jesus Christ. Let us remember Him first because He lives and reigns supreme today.
Heavenly Father, so many gave their lives for us and the number is too great to count. Thank You for their choices to serve. An even greater sacrifice was that of Jesus Christ. Let us remember Him first because He lives and still reigns supreme today. AMEN.