Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member Latest Breaking News General Discussion The DU Lounge All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

lapucelle

(18,252 posts)
8. That's what they always wear.
Sun Aug 29, 2021, 01:35 PM
Aug 2021
Soldiers give all to ensure dignified transfers at Dover

Each week, a squad of Soldiers from the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) is set aside from the typical ceremonial tasking to take upon itself a most difficult honor. These Soldiers are on call, 24 hours a day, weekday or weekend, to receive the remains of America's fallen heroes at Dover Air Force Base in Dover, Del.

snip==========================================================

The Soldiers on the team wear the Army Combat Uniform when they go to Dover. The Soldiers also wear white cotton gloves, the same gloves they wear when rendering honors in Arlington National Cemetery.

The reason for this uniform is for practical reasons, said Capt. Michael Frank, the officer in charge of ceremonies for The Old Guard. Because there is so much time spent in preparation, and because the Soldiers fly to Dover in Blackhawk helicopters, wearing the ACU is much more practical than wearing the ceremonial blues uniform the Soldiers wear when rendering final honors in Arlington National Cemetery. The Soldiers wear the gloves so they can better grip the casket.

https://www.army.mil/article/33191/soldiers_give_all_to_ensure_dignified_transfers_at_dover
Latest Discussions»General Discussion»Why is the Honor Guard at...»Reply #8