Arch of Swords (Sabers) Ceremony

Military weddings are wonderful ceremonies and filled with great symbolism. The highlight of the ceremony is the “Arch of Swords”. Traditionally the bride and groom walk through the arch of swords and the bride receives the “swat to the backside” by the last two swords.  The arch of swords is formed by an honor guard made up of members of the military who would normally wear a sword or saber when in dress uniform. The bride and groom usually must kiss to advance between swords. This picture was taken of the “Arch of Swords” at a recent wedding at Saguaro Buttes.