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?
How many times will a Sentinel be on duty during the shift?
Each Relief has a 24 hour rotational work day. Ideally, four qualified Sentinels, one Relief Commander (RC), one Assistant Relief Commander (ARC), and several Sentinels in training comprise the Relief. The daily walk schedule is made by the RC or ARC and is dependent on the number of Sentinels who are proficient enough to guard the Tomb in front of the public. Generally, the Sentinel will do several walks back to back and then be done for the day. However, in extreme cases, Sentinels have been known to go back-to-back (every other walk) for the entire shift.
