0003
Vernon R. Whitmore
Tomb Position
Commander of the ReliefTomb Relief
Highest Military Rank
Sergeant MajorTomb Dates
May 1957 - Sep 1958Society Membership
MemberObituary
Retired Sgt. Maj. Vernon Ray Whitmore, U.S. ARMY
Vernon Ray Whitmore of Valparaiso, Fla., passed away on Monday, July 20, 2015, in Fort Walton Beach, Fla., due to complications from prolonged COPD. Born in Amherst, Va., Nov. 29, 1929, to John and Lucille Whitmore, Ray attended Amherst High School, and upon graduation joined the United States Army. He served as a member of the 3rd Infantry Division, Old Guard as a Relief Commander at the Tomb of the Unknowns, and later moved to Recruiting and Retention where he served until his retirement in April 1980. Ray is survived by his wife, Barbara; his daughter, Sandra Mills of Gordonsville, Va.; his sons, David of Valparaiso, Jon (Monica) of Burke, Va., and Stephen (Donna) of Uxbridge, Mass.; seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Visitation will be held from 9 to 9:30 a.m. on Friday, July 24, 2015, at the McLaughlin Twin Cities Funeral Home in Niceville followed by the funeral service at 9:30 a.m., with Dr. Herstel Carter officiating. Interment will be in Barrancas National Cemetery in Pensacola, Fla., at 12:30 p.m. with full military honors.
Memories & Condolences
My dad was a loving father. On the 20th of this month will be 2 years since he passed away. Ever since he retired, the man had one heck of a since of humor. I know he is missed and today will be hard on all of the Whitmore family especially to my mother. I can say for all of his family and friends we miss you a lot. I love you Dad. :-)
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Units & Campaigns
3d United States Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard)Awards & Decorations
Army Good Conduct MedalArmy Occupation Medal
Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Identification Badge
Parachutist Badge
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Did you know?
What is the process to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier?
Wreath laying ceremonies are conducted thousands of times each year by many organizations. If you are going soon, there is likely no availability for conducting this ceremony as the slots fill up at least six months in advance. Please visit arlingtoncemetery.mil for more detailed information and to request that honor if you are part of an organization planning a visit.
Wreaths are provided or arranged to be delivered by the public. All questions you may have about that ceremony can be answered on the ANC website or through the cemetery staff.
