0180
David E McCamis
Tomb Position
SentinelTomb Relief
2ndHighest Military Rank
SpecalistTomb Dates
May 1976 - Jun 1977Military Dates
Jun 1973 - Jun 1973Society Membership
Lifetime MemberHome City / State
Kansas City, MOCurrent City / State
Lahaina, HITomb Reflections
Conducting a wreath laying ceremony with a high school group from Georgia. It's always a solemn occasion for us but as taps was being played, I noticed that both the kids who were representing their class had tears streaming down their cheeks. It was humbling to witness their reaction, especially in 1976 when the military was not at the height of its popularity.Contact Information
Units & Campaigns
2nd Battalion, 325th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division3rd United States Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard)
Awards & Decorations
Army Service RibbonGuard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Identification Badge
Parachutist Badge
Expert Infantryman Badge
Expert Marksman 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?
How does the guard rotation work? Is it an 8 hour shift?
Currently, the Tomb Guards work on a three Relief (team) rotation - 24 hours on, 24 hours off, 24 hours on, 24 hours off, 24 hours on, 96 hours off. However, over the years it has been different. The time off isn't exactly free time. It takes the average Sentinel 8 hours to prep their uniform for the next work day. Additionally, they have Physical Training, Tomb Guard training, and haircuts to complete before the next work day.
