The Tomb Guard

0070

William Herbert (Chris) Smith

Tomb Position

Commander of the Relief, Sentinel

Tomb Relief

2nd

Highest Military Rank

Sgt., E-5

Tomb Dates

Mar 1968 - Apr 1969

Military Dates

Apr 1967 - Apr 1969

Society Membership

Lifetime Member

Home City / State

Conyers, GA

Current City / State

Conyers, GA

Contact Information

Spotlight

Units & Campaigns

Basic training, Harmony Church, Ft. Benning, GA. Apr-June 1967.
AIT, C-3-3, Ft. Lewis, WA. June-Sept 1967.
Honor Guard, Company E, Ft. Myer, VA, Sept 1967-Apr 1969.

Awards & Decorations

Leadership Prep certificate
National Defense Medal
Good Conduct Medal
Tomb Guard Badge

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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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Learn More

Did you know?

Has anyone ever tried to get past the Tomb guards, or attempted to deface the Tomb?

Yes, that is the reason why we now guard the Tomb. Back in the early 1920's, we didn't have guards and the Tomb looked much different. It was flat at ground level without the 70 ton marble 'cap'. People often came to the cemetery in those days and a few actually used the Tomb as a picnic area, likely because of the view. Soon after in 1925, they posted a civilian guard. In 1926, a US Army soldier was posted during cemetery hours. On July 1, 1937 guard duty was expanded to the 24 hour watch. Since then, the ceremony has evolved throughout the years to what you see today. Today, most of the challenges faced by the Sentinels are tourists who are speaking too loudly or attempting to get a better picture (by entering the post).