Frederick Kenton Bartrem
Tomb Position
SentinelTomb Relief
1stHighest Military Rank
SP4Tomb Dates
Jan 1958 - Dec 1959Society Membership
--Select One--Tomb Reflections
"It is hard to pick only one memorable moment at the Tomb. But there is one that does stand out. It was a rainy day and I was in the sentry box standing at parade rest. No one was around. I saw a lady come walking up the steps leading to the Tomb. She knelt down on the wet steps & spent quite a bit of time there. Finally, she crossed herself, got up and started walking my way. I came to attention and stared at the box at the other end of the mat. She spoke to me & then she said "Oh, I understand, you are not supposed to speak to me" and she turned and went down the steps. All I could think was this lady lost a father, a husband or a son in one of our wars & this place meant a great deal to her. That left a real impression on this 20-year-old who was privileged to witness this act of reverence. "Memories & Condolences
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Units & Campaigns
3d United States Infantry (The Old Guard)Awards & Decorations
Army Commendation Medal
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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).
