Marine color guards carrying ceremonial drill rifles were delayed Tuesday from entering Capitol Hill, where they were set to participate in a military ceremony.
Capitol Police stopped the Marines at the Cannon House Building entrance over concerns of the two mock rifles, the Hill reported. Both ceremonial guns were inoperable and could not be loaded.
Police delayed the three Marines for at least 20 minutes to inspect the rifles. They were wearing their full dress uniforms and set to present the colors for a military ceremony that showcases the American flag.
Marine color guards add "dignity to any military-related activity, parade, or civic event by showing respect to our Nation and those who have served," according to the Marine Corps website.
The Marines were ultimately allowed to proceed into the building with the ceremonial rifles.
Capitol Police are on high alert after the U.S. Capitol was placed on a brief lockdown last week after authorities thought a female staffer had a gun in her purse. Andrews Air Force Base was also recently on lockdown after an active shooter drill was mistaken as a real active shooter situation.
