0062
John Dawson
Tomb Position
SentinelTomb Relief
1stTomb Dates
Jun 1967 - Aug 1968Military Dates
Aug 1966 - Aug 1968Society Membership
Lifetime MemberHome City / State
Oak Park, ILCurrent City / State
Huntley, ILTomb Reflections
In April, 1968, M.L. King was assisinated. We were all put on alert and later that night our Relief went into a section of town (with loaded rifles) to help prevent any more burning/looting. As the sun rose the next morning, several ladies from the area visited us with warm rolls, etc. to thanks us for protecting them and their property. 2 months later R.E. Kennedy was killed and our RElief worked the funeral. About 4 months later I received a pesonal letter from Ethel Kennedy, thanking me for being at the funeral.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.
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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).
