Fifteen years ago today...
9 years ago
A short note on this 15th anniversary of September 11th. We often get questions about the Tomb Guard and what happened on that day fifteen years ago. I emailed the Sentinel who was posted that day and asked him what he remembered and this is his response.
"When the plane flew over we were in the middle and the guards were passing on their orders. After it hit the Pentagon is when we turned to salute the Tomb. The smoke rising from the Pentagon was a big mushroom cloud. I continued on with the change without missing a beat. When the plane was flying over, [I] didn't know if it was a fly over for Air Force funeral until it hit the Pentagon. Then after I came down from the changing the guard I let [you] guys know that the Pentagon just got hit."
Never Forget.
Latest News
Missing In Action
Posted October 14, 2025Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Foundation John Hamre, Neale Cosby, Richard Azzaro, and Mick Kicklighter Dear Colleagues, This article is being forwarded to capture the work of Joe Neubeiser, Joe...
America's Appreciation
Posted October 14, 2025America’s Appreciation Benjamin Bell (2001-2004) Veteran’s Day I wear a lanyard at work. It says “US ARMY,” and I’ve adorned it with accouterments. There are two pins commemorating certifications...
The Ship in the Desert
Posted October 14, 2025The Ship in the Desert Larry Seaton, SHGTUS Historian 14th Tomb Guard Reunion We are all familiar with the connection between the USS Olympia and the WWI Unknown Soldier. The Unknown Soldier’s...
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 long does the Sentinel hesitate after the facing movement to begin the return walk? Is the rifle carried on the same shoulder all the time?
The Sentinel does not execute an about face, rather they stop on the 21st step, then turn and face the Tomb for 21 seconds. They then turn to face back down the mat, change the weapon to the outside shoulder, mentally count off 21 seconds, then step off for another 21 step walk down the mat. They face the Tomb at each end of the 21 step walk for 21 seconds. The Sentinel then repeats this over and over until the the Guard Change ceremony begins.
