Hegseth’s group reprimanded for making noise at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

November 11, 2026 / 4:13 PM EST / CBS News

Washington — A guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery on Wednesday loudly reprimanded a group of people that included Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for making noise at the site.

Hegseth, his wife and several aides — including chief of staff Ricky Buria — visited the tomb for a Veterans Day wreath-laying, followed by a ceremony at the nearby Memorial Auditorium. President Trump and first lady Melania Trump also attended the event.

After the ceremony, the defense secretary and his team posed for a photo. As they began walking away, a member of the group audibly laughed, leading a U.S. Army sentinel to belt out: "All visitors will maintain an atmosphere of silence and respect at all times."

It is not clear who laughed, or whether Hegseth made any noise.

Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell told CBS News: "The Secretary and the entire Department have always honored—and will always honor—the sacrifices our military men and women have made to keep America safe. While commemorating this solemn day, a soldier correctly and respectfully reminded everyone to maintain decorum."

A group with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth was…

Original source: https://www.cbsnews.com/entertainment/