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Olympia Journey Home Challenge Coin
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Olympia Journey Home Challenge Coin
This challenge coin commemorates the journey home of the WW1 Unknown Soldier aboard the U.S.S. Olympia. The front of the coin features an image of the U.S.S. Olympia powering through rough seas. Both the ship and the waves are rendered in 3D. The two anchors on each side represent the ports of Le Harve, France and the Washington Navy Yard, where the ships journey began and ended. The backside of the coin features the name of the ship's Captain Henry Lake Wyman, and the name of the Captain of the U.S. Marine Corps detachment Graves B. Erskine, assigned to escort the Unknown Soldier home on board the ship, to the United States. The center of the coin features the words of ships Chaplain Lt. Duff given to the crew during a prayer service as a hurricane lashed the ship on its way home. Each coin measures 2'' in diameter and has a shiny gold finish.
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Did you know?
Is it true a Sentinel must commit for two years to guard the Tomb, live in a barracks under the tomb, and cannot drink any alcohol on or off duty for the rest of their lives.
No, this is a false rumor. The average tour at the Tomb is about a 18 months. However, there is NO set time for service there. Sentinels live either in a barracks on Ft. Myer (the Army post located adjacent to the cemetery) or off base if they like. They do have a living quarters under the steps of the amphitheater where they stay during their 24 hour shifts. If they are of legal age, they may drink except while on duty.