James Palmer
Tomb Position
SentinelTomb Relief
3rdHighest Military Rank
SpecialistTomb Dates
Jun 1960 - Jan 1961Society Membership
Lifetime MemberHome City / State
Fresno, CACurrent City / State
Fresno, CATomb Reflections
I was assigned to relieve David Barnes at the 2am to 4am guard change. He informed me that there were MP's running all over the cemetery, because there were many headstones being pushed up, not over. Real big ones that couldn't be moved by just a few people. I was hoping Sgt. Bone would come up and check on me after a while, but when the MP's left it was just me and 110,000 graves. I was the only one above ground. Many strange thoughts go through one's mind at a time like this, I wished that I had some of that live ammunition that we use to carry on Post #1.Units & Campaigns
Basic and Advanced Infantry, Ft Ord, CA3d US Infantry (The Old Guard), Honor Guard, Firing Party, Ft Myer, VA
3d US Infantry (The Old Guard), Honor Guard, Post #1, Tomb Guard Platoon
Awards & Decorations
Army Good Conduct MedalTomb Guard Identification Badge
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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.
