William E. Rigsby

Tomb Position

Sergeant of the Guard

Tomb Relief

Highest Military Rank

Sergeant Major

Tomb Dates

Jun 1960 - Nov 1961

Military Dates

Oct 1949 - May 1976

Society Membership

Lifetime Member

Home City / State

Charleston, WV

Current City / State

Irmo, WV

Memories & Condolences

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Units & Campaigns

3d United States Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard)

Awards & Decorations

army Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Combat Infantryman Badge
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Identification Badge

Back to Tomb Guards

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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.

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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.

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