Hegseth honors soldier who reprimanded him at Arlington National Cemetery
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth awarded a Joint Service Commendation Medal to Specialist Thomas Iglesias, who reprimanded him and his staff for a loud laugh at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier during a Veterans Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. Hegseth posted photos of the award ceremony on social media, praising the soldier's adherence to standards. The Pentagon confirmed the medal was given for Iglesias's duties on November 11, 2026, following the incident captured on video after a ceremony with President Donald Trump and Vice-President JD Vance. The Tomb, guarded continuously since 1948, is a revered memorial for unidentified soldiers. The award is typically not given to junior enlisted personnel. The scolding drew attention to Hegseth, who survived an impeachment attempt led by Republican congressman Thomas Massie the day before, with Democrats likely to renew efforts in January.