Hegseth awards medal to soldier who upheld decorum at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has awarded a medal to the Army soldier who reprimanded his entourage for breaking decorum at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. On Thursday, he presented Specialist Thomas Iglesias with the Joint Service Commendation Medal.
A Pentagon official confirmed to Fox News Digital in a statement on Thursday that Hegseth had 'proudly' awarded Iglesias the medal in recognition of the execution of his duties.
The official said that, as shown in the photos, Hegseth welcomed the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, 'the Old Guard,' to the Pentagon and 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.
The Joint Service Commendation Medal is a military decoration awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who distinguish themselves through meritorious achievement or service, typically while serving in joint military operations or activities.
Earlier, on Wednesday, after laughter was heard as Hegseth and his entourage walked away from the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier following a Veterans Day ceremony, Iglesias reminded visitors to remain silent and maintain decorum. In the video he was heard commanding, 'All visitors will maintain an atmosphere of silence and respect at all times.'
Hegseth wrote on X on Thursday, 'We love soldiers. We love standards. Well done, Specialist.' He added, 'Carry on Patriots.'
Following Wednesday's incident, Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell told CBS News that Hegseth and the entire Department have always honored — and will always honor — the sacrifices military men and women have made to keep America safe.
Parnell added that, while commemorating this solemn day, a soldier correctly and respectfully reminded everyone to maintain decorum.
