Felix "Phil" Cordek
Tomb Position
SentinelTomb Relief
Highest Military Rank
Sergeant First ClassTomb Dates
Feb 1952 - Mar 1954Society Membership
Founding FatherObituary
Felix (Phil) Cordek, 89, of Stanley passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 16, 2019. Born March 30, 1930 in South Fork, PA, one of ten children to Rose and Frank Cordek Sr. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Joy Shumate Cordek and loving daughter, Deborah Caldwell and husband Dwight Caldwell.
He graduated from Auburn University in 1968 with a degree in textiles engineering. After an honorable discharge from the Army in 1957, where he proudly served in the Third Infantry's Old Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, it was there he met an Air Force Airman First Class, Joy, who was known by all as "Sergeant Red" and later became his soul mate for 65 years.
Outside Tributes
TributeMemories & Condolences
Share a Memory
Units & Campaigns
3d United States Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard)
Support the Society
The Society of the Honor Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (SHGTUS) is able to provide our programs, events, assistance, scholarships, and services due to the generosity of its members, organizations, and individuals. SHGTUS does not receive institutional funding. Note: The Society of the Honor Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a 501(c)(3) organization, so your contributions may be fully tax deductible.
Learn More
Did you know?
How many steps does the Sentinel take during their 'walk' by the Tomb of the Unknowns and why?
Twenty-one steps. It alludes to the twenty-one gun salute, which is the highest honor given any military or foreign dignitary.
