0178
Michael P Heaphy
Tomb Position
Commander of the Relief, SentinelTomb Relief
3rdHighest Military Rank
SGT E-5Tomb Dates
May 1976 - Jan 1978Military Dates
Dec 1973 - Jan 1978Society Membership
MemberHome City / State
Buffalo, NYCurrent City / State
Decatur, GATomb Reflections
Best duty every - BiCentennial of the United States of America. I was at the Tomb from late 1975 until mustering out of the Army January 1978. If I were to have to do it all over, I would not hesitate, highest honor an Infantry soldier could imagine was being picked to be a Sentinel at the Tomb. Wreath-laying ceremonies were always truly touching, and every time I changed the Guard I had to bite my tongue at the honor. I was known as a bellower for my deep voice and ability to control a crowd with that voice. I have nothing but admiration for any other soldiers that served. A finer group of men I have never known, including all the men, the NCOs, and the officers involved.Memories & Condolences
Share a Memory
Units & Campaigns
Co C, 2nd Bn 504th Infanty, 82nd Airborne DivisionCo E, 3rd US Infantry (The Old Guard)
Awards & Decorations
National Defense Service MedalGood Conduct Medal
Tomb Guard Badge
US Army Jungle Operations Training Center badge
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?
Do you guard in a blizzard or a bad thunderstorm?
YES, but the accomplishment of the mission and welfare of the Soldier are never put at risk. The Tomb Guards have contingencies that are ready to be executed if the weather conditions ever place the Soldiers at risk of injury or death (i.e. lightning, high winds, etc). This ensures that Sentinels can continue the mission while ensuring safety. It is the responsibility of the Chain of Command from the Sergeant of the Guard to the Regimental Commander to ensure mission accomplishment and soldier welfare at all times.
It was erroneously reported that during Hurricane Isabel, the Sentinels were ordered to abandon their posts for shelter and that they refused. No such order was ever given. All proper precautions were taken to ensure the safety of the Sentinels while accomplishing their mission. Risk assessments are constantly conducted by the Chain of Command during changing conditions to ensure that soldier welfare is maintained during mission accomplishment.
