News Summary
Andrew Jay, a former U.S. Army Sergeant and the 41st Sergeant of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, has transitioned to an educational role at Michigan State University ROTC. At 39, he aims to prepare future soldiers, drawing from his extensive military experience. Jay highlights the significance of the Tomb’s memorial and instills values of honor and respect in his students, ensuring the memory of the nation’s heroes remains alive as he shapes future military leaders.
East Lansing, Michigan – Former U.S. Army Sergeant Andrew Jay, recognized as the 41st Sergeant of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, has taken a significant step in his career by joining the Michigan State University Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program as a Military Science instructor. At 39 years old, Jay has transitioned from a prestigious military role to an educational position, where he aims to prepare the next generation of soldiers to honorably wear the army uniform.
Jay’s military service began at the age of 22, and his most notable accomplishment was his 26-month tour at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, which concluded this past summer. As Sergeant of the Guard, he was responsible for leading the tomb sentinels, ensuring they maintained constant vigilance over the monument—a site of profound national significance containing the remains of unknown service members from World War I, World War II, and the Korean War. Jay underscored the devotion required of sentinels, highlighting their commitment to the memory of these unknown soldiers.
During his tenure, Jay oversaw soldiers aged 18 to 24, who contributed significantly to his professional development. He undertook extensive training in intricate military procedures, mastering skills such as rifle flips, heel clicks, and synchronized movements. His effort in this role was recognized through the attainment of the Tomb Guard ID badge, an honor granted to fewer than 750 soldiers over the past 77 years.
The ceremonial duties at the Tomb include the changing of the guard, a highly precise ritual where soldiers walk 21 steps to the north and south, pausing for 21 seconds before turning. This number symbolizes the utmost respect for the fallen soldiers. Jay’s leadership during this period was marked by a strict adherence to tradition and decorum, which he instilled in the young soldiers under his command.
His final ceremony at the Tomb took place on June 2, 2023, and was an emotionally charged event attended by friends, family, and fellow soldiers. His eight-year-old son, Finn, was present alongside him, receiving a commemorative Lego set of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as a keepsake. Jay expressed immense pride in his accomplishments during his service, and he credited much of his success to the unwavering support of his son.
With his role at Michigan State University ROTC, Jay seeks to channel his invaluable experiences and lessons learned from his military career into shaping future leaders. He believes that his life experiences at the Tomb will significantly influence both his personal growth and professional endeavors. Through his teaching, he hopes to instill a deep sense of honor and respect in his students, further ensuring that the memory of the nation’s heroes remains alive.
The transition from service to education is a significant move for Jay, who reflects on the dedication and commitment required by those who guard the Tomb and the important values of respect and responsibility that they embody. As he embarks on this new chapter, Jay is committed to helping develop the character and skills of the cadets at Michigan State University as they prepare for their future careers in the military.
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- WILX: Hallowed Grounds, Hallowed Halls
- Wikipedia: General Information
- WILX: Arlington Tomb Guard Teach MSU ROTC
- Google Search: Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
- WILX: Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Gallery
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Unknown Soldier
- Fox 47 News: Dewitt Police Simunition Training
- Google News: MSU ROTC
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