0144
Craig B. Smith
Tomb Position
Commander of the Relief, SentinelTomb Relief
2ndHighest Military Rank
SeargentTomb Dates
Sep 1973 - Sep 1974Society Membership
Lifetime MemberHome City / State
Muskegon, MICurrent City / State
Muskegon, MITomb Reflections
Second Relief was the best and most respected relief. We had several challenges on site during the May riots of 1972 in Washington DC. To this day when its mentioned that I was a proud member of the Tomb Guard you receive many questions and a high level of respect. I'm extremely proud to have been a member of what is still today an extremely elite group of the Army's Best.Awards & Decorations
SeveralSupport 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.
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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).
