3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard)

The 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, known as "The Old Guard," is the oldest active-duty infantry unit in the United States Army, originally constituted in 1784. Throughout its distinguished history, the unit has served in major conflicts including the War of 1812, the Mexican-American War, the Civil War, and various operations in the 20th and 21st centuries. Since 1948, The Old Guard has been stationed at Fort Myer, Virginia, with primary ceremonial duties in the National Capital Region, including conducting military funerals at Arlington National Cemetery and providing honors at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. In addition to its ceremonial role, The Old Guard remains a combat-ready infantry regiment, upholding its legacy of service and tradition.