0009
Joseph S. Zachwieja Jr.
Tomb Relief
Tomb Dates
Jun 1960 - Jul 1961Society Membership
Lifetime MemberObituary
J.S. Zachwieja, Jr., 80, of Fairfield Harbour, died Tuesday, May 27, 2014 at Grantsbrook Nursing Home in Grantsboro after a long illness. Zach was born in 1934 in Philadelphia, PA. He entered the U.S. Army Infantry in 1951 and served combat tours in Korea and twice in Vietnam where he was awarded two purple hearts and a bronze star. From June 1960 to July 1961, with the 3rd infantry, he was the Platoon leader (Officer-in-Charge) of the guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers in Arlington National Cemetery. As a Lt. Col. he retired in 1972 after 21 years of service. He moved to New Bern (FFH) in 1987 to play golf and enjoy his retirement. He is survived by his wife Patricia "Patty", elder daughter Theresa Cohen of Philadelphia, PA, son Stephen Joseph Zachwieja of Redmond, WA, daughter Alexa Hook of Chesapeake, VA, and six grandchildren.Memories & Condolences
Share a Memory
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 does the guard rotation work? Is it an 8 hour shift?
Currently, the Tomb Guards work on a three Relief (team) rotation - 24 hours on, 24 hours off, 24 hours on, 24 hours off, 24 hours on, 96 hours off. However, over the years it has been different. The time off isn't exactly free time. It takes the average Sentinel 8 hours to prep their uniform for the next work day. Additionally, they have Physical Training, Tomb Guard training, and haircuts to complete before the next work day.
