
0286
John C Bolen Jr
Tomb Position
Sergeant of the GuardTomb Relief
hqHighest Military Rank
1st SergeantTomb Dates
Mar 1984 - Nov 1984Military Dates
Oct 1971 - Feb 1992Society Membership
MemberHome City / State
Cisne, ILCurrent City / State
Fayetteville, ILTomb Reflections
Internment of Unknown Solider from Vietnam War.Sergeant of the Guard during Reagan administration.
"The climate of the Vietnam Internment I can tell you that the feelings of the Sentinels was a combination of pride and heartfelt emotion. As the bearer of the Presidential wreath I can tell you that it was the highlight of my ceremonial career … my proudest moment though was when the joint pallbearers were relieved by Sentinels from TUS and I felt that the Unknown remains had arrived “home”. "
Units & Campaigns
3d United States Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard)3rd Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division
Awards & Decorations
Bronze StarMeritorious Service Medal (4 OLC)
Army Commendation Medal (1 OLC)
Army Achievement Medal (2 OLC)
National Defense Service Medal
Southwest Asia Service Medal
Kuwait Liberation Medal
Army Service Ribbon
NCO Professional Development Ribbon
Combat Infantryman Badge
Expert Infantryman Badge
Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Identification Badge
Drill Sergeant Badge
Master Parachutist Badge
Air Assault Badge
Pathfinder Badge
German Parachutist Badge
Canadian Parachutist Badge
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?
Is it true a Sentinel must commit for two years to guard the Tomb, live in a barracks under the tomb, and cannot drink any alcohol on or off duty for the rest of their lives.
No, this is a false rumor. The average tour at the Tomb is about a 18 months. However, there is NO set time for service there. Sentinels live either in a barracks on Ft. Myer (the Army post located adjacent to the cemetery) or off base if they like. They do have a living quarters under the steps of the amphitheater where they stay during their 24 hour shifts. If they are of legal age, they may drink except while on duty.