
0262
Mark A Farrar
Tomb Position
SentinelTomb Relief
1stHighest Military Rank
LTCTomb Dates
Oct 1982 - Aug 1983Society Membership
Lifetime MemberHome City / State
Colesville, MDCurrent City / State
Campbellsville, KYTomb Reflections
One of the most interesting year of my life – a true honor to provide a unique service and be part of a proud tradition. An absolutely first-class way to begin an Army career. I didn't realize at the time how my TUS tour would come up again and again as a positive discriminator on future assignments.Units & Campaigns
3rd US INF (TOG)7th US INF, 3ID
303 MI BN, 504th MI BDE
3rd BDE 1st CD (Operation Iris Gold)
MBBL, Ft Knox
1st CD
102nd MI BN, 2ID
4th Cav BDE, 85th DIV
Awards & Decorations
Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal (2nd Award), Army Commendation Medal (6th Award), Army Achievement Medal (3rd Award), Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal (1 Bronze Star), Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (2nd Award), Kuwait Liberation Medal (KU), M-21 Sniper Weapon System Expert Qualification Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, Ranger Tab, Guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Identification 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?
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).