John Butchko
Tomb Relief
Tomb Dates
Aug 1959 - Oct 1960Society Membership
Founding FatherCurrent City / State
Swoyersville, PennsylvaniaObituary
Former Swoyersville Councilman John Butchko passed away Friday, September 9, 2011, at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital. Born in Wilkes-Barre Township, a son of the late Charles and Anna Kish Butchko, John was a member of Holy Trinity Church, Swoyersville. He was employed by the Wyoming Valley Sewer Authority. John was a U.S. Army Veteran and was one of the Guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. He was a member of the American Legion Post 644, Swoyersville. John was also a founding member of the Society of Honor Guard Tomb of Unknown Soldier. He was very active in politics and served as a Councilman for the Borough of Swoyersville for many years. He was preceded in death by siblings, Ann, Marge, Mary, Michael and Helen. Surviving are his wife, the former Rosemarie Washko; children, Lynne McCann, Swoyersville; Maria Figmic, Nanticoke; John, Swoyersville, and Tammy Cook, Swoyersville; grandchildren, Abriel McCann, John and Matthew Butchko, Joshua, Ronald, Charles and Nicholas Cook; as well as sisters, Elizabeth Zbegner and Jean Miscavage, both of Plains Township.Outside Tributes
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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?
Is it true after two years, the guard is given a wreath pin that is worn on their lapel signifying they served as Guard of the Tomb, that there are only 600 presently worn, and that the Guard must obey these rules for the rest of their lives or give up the wreath pin?
The Tomb Guard Identification Badge (TGIB) is awarded after the Sentinel passes a series of tests. The TGIB is permanently awarded after a Sentinel has served nine months as a Sentinel at the Tomb. Over 600 have been awarded since its creation in the late 1950's (on average 10 per year). And while the TGIB can be revoked, the offense must be such that it discredits the Tomb of the Unknowns. Revocation is at the 3rd Infantry Regimental Commander’s discretion and can occur while active duty or even when the Sentinel is a civilian. The TGIB is a full size award, worn on the right pocket of the uniform jacket, not a lapel pin.
