Robert Van Wieren
Tomb Position
SentinelTomb Relief
Tomb Dates
Aug 1960 - Aug 1962Society Membership
MemberObituary
Robert Dale "Bob" Van Wieren, 75, entered into eternal rest on October 1, 2013. He was born in 1938, in Holland, Michigan, to Adrianna and John Van Wieren. Following graduation from Holland High School, Bob served in the United States Army. He was very proud to serve as a Tomb Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Arlington National Cemetery. He received several accolades while serving at the Tomb, including; longest-serving Tomb Guard, first to be married and become a father at the Tomb, and featured on a national "We Want You" poster for the Army and in the national news show "The Huntley-Brinkley Report". After his service, he returned to Holland with his wife to work and raise his family. His family was very important to him. He loved spending time with all of them and attended many of his children's and grandchildren's sporting events and school programs. He was very proud of them. He was always willing to go out of his way to help everyone whenever they needed it. He also loved hunting, fishing and working around the house. He was a skilled craftsman in wood working, restoration of cars, motorcycles, and most recently, his vintage Chris Craft boat. He is survived by his wife Merry; children Tod Van Wieren (Janet) of Grand Ledge, Michigan, Vicky Jackson (Mark) of Holland, Tim Van Wieren (Christina) of Zeeland, Michigan, Mark Van Wieren (Peg) of West Olive, Michigan, Ben Van Wieren of Holland, and Jon Van Wieren of Holland; and many loving grandchildren, family, and friends. Graveside services with military honors will be held on October 7, 2013 at Pilgrim Home Cemetery, Holland, Michigan.Memories & Condolences
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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.