James Palmer

Tomb Position

Sentinel

Tomb Relief

3rd

Highest Military Rank

Specialist

Tomb Dates

Jun 1960 - Jan 1961

Society Membership

Lifetime Member

Home City / State

Fresno, CA

Current City / State

Fresno, CA

Tomb Reflections

I was assigned to relieve David Barnes at the 2am to 4am guard change. He informed me that there were MP's running all over the cemetery, because there were many headstones being pushed up, not over. Real big ones that couldn't be moved by just a few people. I was hoping Sgt. Bone would come up and check on me after a while, but when the MP's left it was just me and 110,000 graves. I was the only one above ground. Many strange thoughts go through one's mind at a time like this, I wished that I had some of that live ammunition that we use to carry on Post #1.

Units & Campaigns

Basic and Advanced Infantry, Ft Ord, CA
3d US Infantry (The Old Guard), Honor Guard, Firing Party, Ft Myer, VA
3d US Infantry (The Old Guard), Honor Guard, Post #1, Tomb Guard Platoon

Awards & Decorations

Army Good Conduct Medal
Tomb Guard 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.