Publishers Weekly
04/22/2019
In this meticulous history, Arkansas senator Cotton explains the role and duties of the Third Infantry Regiment, aka the Old Guard, at Arlington National Cemetery. For several months in 2007, after serving a tour of duty in Iraq, Cotton was a member of the regiment, which was established in 1784 to honor the “memory of our nation’s fallen heroes” and now conducts ceremonies, escorts the president, and maintains a round-the-clock vigil at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Visitors have observed the unique appearance and requirements of members of the Old Guard: a colonial-era uniform complete with wig, unusual marching style, above-average height (Cotton is 6’5”), and “standing proficiency”—they must be able to regularly stand absolutely still for 75 minutes. Cotton writes in depth about Section 60 of the cemetery, the “newest and most active burial area,” which is allocated to those killed in Iran and Afghanistan; during Cotton’s time in the regiment, 11 of 85 soldiers killed were laid to rest there. He recalls mourners in large processions wracked with “the anguish of losing a loved one just a few days earlier,” including comrades from his tour in Iraq. This reverent account will please readers of military history. Agent: Keith Urbahn, Javelin. (May)
From the Publisher
A moving, reverent history—a tribute, really—to ‘The Old Guard’ … An ode to excellence and caring in service to the nation. It is an inspiring read for every American.” — ROBERT M. GATES, former U.S. Secretary of Defense
“A wonderful book about Arlington National Cemetery and the men and women who serve with such love and devotion.” — DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States
“Sacred Duty deserves a wide readership. ... Well-crafted. ... Reveals the ethos that connects warriors to one another and to the citizens in whose name they fight.” — H.R . McMASTER, former National Security Advisor
“A must-read. ... Sure to appeal to patriotic Americans of all stripes.” — Kirkus Reviews
“In this meticulous history, Arkansas senator Cotton explains the role and duties of the Third Infantry Regiment, aka the Old Guard, at Arlington National Cemetery. ... This reverent account will please readers.” — Publishers Weekly
“Poignant. … An encomium to the martial virtues as embodied by [Cotton’s] former unit, the storied 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment—the Old Guard. … Cotton’s account of the noble regiment established at the dawn of our nation and still standing sentry over those who gave ‘the last, full measure of devotion’ to the republic is a welcome reminder that those virtues still exist somewhere in America.” — Commentary
“Sacred Duty is an important and often moving book for soldiers, those who have been soldiers, and those who know and love soldiers. Indeed, it offers a unique insight into that ephemeral thing, the soul of the Army.” — Army magazine
“Fascinating. ... [An] inspiring, much-needed book.” — Claremont Review of Books
ROBERT M. GATES
A moving, reverent history—a tribute, really—to ‘The Old Guard’ … An ode to excellence and caring in service to the nation. It is an inspiring read for every American.
H.R . McMASTER
Sacred Duty deserves a wide readership. ... Well-crafted. ... Reveals the ethos that connects warriors to one another and to the citizens in whose name they fight.
Commentary
Poignant. … An encomium to the martial virtues as embodied by [Cotton’s] former unit, the storied 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment—the Old Guard. … Cotton’s account of the noble regiment established at the dawn of our nation and still standing sentry over those who gave ‘the last, full measure of devotion’ to the republic is a welcome reminder that those virtues still exist somewhere in America.
Claremont Review of Books
Fascinating. ... [An] inspiring, much-needed book.
Army magazine
Sacred Duty is an important and often moving book for soldiers, those who have been soldiers, and those who know and love soldiers. Indeed, it offers a unique insight into that ephemeral thing, the soul of the Army.
DONALD J. TRUMP
A wonderful book about Arlington National Cemetery and the men and women who serve with such love and devotion.
GENERAL H.R. MCMASTER
Sacred Duty deserves a wide readership. ... Well-crafted. ... Reveals the ethos that connects warriors to one another and to the citizens in whose name they fight.
