Hegseth decorates soldier who called him to order
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on La Nouvelle Tribune
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth presented the Joint Service Commendation Medal to Specialist Iglesias, a member of the Old Guard, on 12 November. The soldier had called Hegseth’s entourage to order at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on 11 November, according to the Pentagon.
Specialist Iglesias, of the US Army’s 3rd Infantry Regiment, known as the Old Guard, received the Joint Service Commendation Medal from Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth at the Pentagon on 12 November 2026. A Pentagon official said the award recognised his performance of his duties at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on 11 November, when he called visitors, including Hegseth and his staff, to order to maintain silence and respect.
Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said Specialist Iglesias had correctly and respectfully reminded the visitors of the rules of proper conduct. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier has been guarded day and night by Old Guard soldiers since 1948, who regularly intervene when visitors become too noisy, including official figures. Pete Hegseth welcomed the award in a message posted on X.
