0357
Edmond Gittens, Jr.
Tomb Position
Sergeant of the GuardTomb Relief
hqHighest Military Rank
MSGTomb Dates
Sep 1989 - May 1991Military Dates
Oct 1976 - May 1997Society Membership
Lifetime MemberHome City / State
Hyattsville, MDCurrent City / State
Port St Lucie, MDTomb Reflections
I will always credit my duty assignment as Sergeant Of the Guard, Tomb of the Unknowns and also the Color Guard Sergeant, Continental Color Guard with contributing immensely to the manner in which I’ve conducted myself as a soldier and as a civilian. Being a member of The Old Guard, 3d Inf. Regiment made me a better person, father and mentor to others. I was able to be in the presence of the Queen of England, President Bush, VP Dan Quayle and numerous other dignataries and heads of states. In my heart I’ll always be a Tomb Guard. Line 6 is always in effect!!!Units & Campaigns
3d United States Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard)Awards & Decorations
Meritorious Service MedalArmy Commendation Medal
Army Achievement Medal
Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Expert Infantry Badge
Air Assault Badge
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Identification Badge
US Army Recruiter Badge (Gold)
Expert Marksmanship (Rifle)
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?
Do you guard in a blizzard or a bad thunderstorm?
YES, but the accomplishment of the mission and welfare of the Soldier are never put at risk. The Tomb Guards have contingencies that are ready to be executed if the weather conditions ever place the Soldiers at risk of injury or death (i.e. lightning, high winds, etc). This ensures that Sentinels can continue the mission while ensuring safety. It is the responsibility of the Chain of Command from the Sergeant of the Guard to the Regimental Commander to ensure mission accomplishment and soldier welfare at all times.
It was erroneously reported that during Hurricane Isabel, the Sentinels were ordered to abandon their posts for shelter and that they refused. No such order was ever given. All proper precautions were taken to ensure the safety of the Sentinels while accomplishing their mission. Risk assessments are constantly conducted by the Chain of Command during changing conditions to ensure that soldier welfare is maintained during mission accomplishment.
