During the August 2026 Board of Directors meeting, the General Federation of Women’s Club Board Members toured Arlington National Cemetery. During the tour, International Officers, President, Wendy Carriker and Director of Junior Clubs, Trina Behbahani placed a GFWC wreath at the base of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier commemorating all unidentified American soldiers who have died in battle zones around the world. They were accompanied by President-Elect, Jolie Frankfurth and First Vice President, Mary Beth Williams.
Click here to watch the ceremony
The group learned that The Old Guard a group of elite volunteer soldiers from the U.S Army’s 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment guard the tomb continuously, 24 hours a day. 365 days a year. Sentinels walk exactly 21 steps past the tomb, pause for 21 seconds, face specific directions and repeat the routine to symbolize the highest military honor.
GFWC members watched the changing of the guard which was a meticulous, highly synchronized ceremony which takes place regularly depending on the season.
