John David Smythe
Tomb Position
Platoon LeaderTomb Relief
hqHighest Military Rank
ColonelTomb Dates
Dec 1957 - Dec 1958Military Dates
Jun 1953 - Jun 1983Society Membership
Lifetime MemberUnits & Campaigns
3d United States Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard)9th Infantry Division
Pentagon
25th Infantry Regiment (Tropic Lightning)
1st Army
5th Army
Awards & Decorations
Silver StarLegion of Merit (4th Award)
Distinguished Flying Cross
Bronze Star (w/V and 1 OLC)
Meritorious Service Medal
Air Medal (4th Award)
Army Commendation Medal (w/V)
National Defense Service Medal (1 OLC)
Vietnam Service Medal
Humanitarian Service Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Overseas Service Ribbon (2nd Award)
Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Honor Medal First Class
Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces Honor Medal First Class
Republic of Korean Order of National Security Merit Samil Medal
Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation w/Palm
Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal
Combat Infantryman Badge
Expert Infantryman Badge
Parachutist Badge
Ranger Tab
General Staff Identification 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?
How many times will a Sentinel be on duty during the shift?
Each Relief has a 24 hour rotational work day. Ideally, four qualified Sentinels, one Relief Commander (RC), one Assistant Relief Commander (ARC), and several Sentinels in training comprise the Relief. The daily walk schedule is made by the RC or ARC and is dependent on the number of Sentinels who are proficient enough to guard the Tomb in front of the public. Generally, the Sentinel will do several walks back to back and then be done for the day. However, in extreme cases, Sentinels have been known to go back-to-back (every other walk) for the entire shift.
