Scholarships
The Society awards education scholarships to benefit Tomb Guards and their families, and individuals sponsored by Tomb Guards.
The scholarships are awarded by the Society Education Committee on a recurring annual basis to individuals meeting certain criteria specific to each scholarship.
The Society currently offers three scholarships (see below). Applicants may apply online by selecting the "Apply" button next to the scholarship, or they may request a paper application through the Society's contact page.
Neale Cosby Scholarship
The Neale Cosby Scholarship was founded in 2002 in honor of former Tomb Guard Platoon Leader Neale Cosby, who is a Founder of the Society.
The Scholarship is dedicated to current and former Tomb Guards and their family members.
Criteria:
- must be a current or former Tomb Guard or a family member of the same
- must be sponsored by a member in good standing with the SHGTUS
- must be enrolled or accepted in an accredited institution of higher learning or secondary vocational school
- must submit your latest annual education transcripts
- a family member applicant must submit two (2) letters of recommendation from persons of authority.
- must submit a supporting 400-500 word essay answering the question: "What does the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier mean to you?"
- application with the aforementioned must be received by the SHGTUS no later than May 15
Adam Dickmyer Memorial Scholarship
The Adam Dickmyer Memorial Scholarship was founded in 2010 in honor of former Tomb Guard Adam Dickmyer, who was killed in action in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom.
The Scholarship is open to current or former Tomb Guards.
Criteria:
- must be a current or former Tomb Guard
- must be sponsored by a member in good standing with the SHGTUS
- must be enrolled or accepted in an accredited institution of higher learning or secondary vocational school
- must submit your latest annual education transcripts
- must submit a supporting 400-500 word essay answering the question: "How will you continue to honor and share the history of the Unknowns?"
- application with the aforementioned must be received by the SHGTUS no later than May 15
SHGTUS Freedom Scholarship
The SHGTUS Freedom Scholarship was founded in 2012 in honor of all unknown war heroes.
The scholarship is open to anyone who has an affinity for the mission of the SHGTUS.
Criteria:
- must be sponsored by a current or former Tomb Guard - search for a Tomb Guard in your area for sponsorship
- must be enrolled or accepted in an accredited institution of higher learning or secondary vocational school
- must submit your latest annual education transcripts
- must submit 2 letters of recommendation from persons of authority
- must submit a supporting 400-500 word essay answering the question: "What can Americans learn from the sacrifices made by the Unknown Soldier, and the dedication of the Tomb Guard."
- application with the aforementioned must be received by the SHGTUS no later than May 15
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?
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).
