0129
Jonathan Eastham
Tomb Position
SentinelTomb Relief
2ndHighest Military Rank
SergeantTomb Dates
May 1972 - Aug 1973Military Dates
Sep 1970 - Sep 1973Society Membership
Lifetime MemberHome City / State
Hyattsville, MDCurrent City / State
Butler, MDTomb Reflections
Most memorable Moment at The Tomb. It was a very busy summer day in 1973. After a walk I told the RC I would conduct the next change to give him a break. As the civilian guard parted the crowd to let me inside the chains I heard a woman frantically calling to her toddler son, he was probably no more than two years old. He had stepped well inside the chains to get away from the crushing adults gathered around for the upcoming guard change. The next instant I hear "Commander Of The Relief, Post Number 1".When I approached the little guy he just kept backing up, right into WWI. Upon corning him I put out my hand and said let’s go find Mommy. When he took my hand I heard a collective "Awwwwwwwh" from the several hundred onlookers. I wish I had a picture of me handing him over to his mom. The end of the story?
"It is requested that parents keep their children on the OUTSIDE of the chains. Thank you". I actually said that to her. I felt bad about it when I got back downstairs.
Units & Campaigns
Fort Dix (Basic Training)Fort Polk (Advanced Infantry Training)
3d United States Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard)
- 1st Presidential Marching Platoon
- Continental Color Guard
- Tomb Guard Platoon
Awards & Decorations
Army Commendation Medal (2nd Award)National Defense Service Medal
Army Service Ribbon
Tomb Guard Identification Badge
Expert Marksmanship Badge - Automatic 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?
What is it like to guard in bad weather?
The Sentinels at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier are completely dedicated to their duty of guarding the Tomb. In fact, line eight of our Sentinel's Creed refers to the "discomfort of the elements". Because of their dedication, the weather does not bother them. In fact, it is considered an honor to walk the mat during inclement weather. It gets cold, it gets hot and the mission continues as it has unbroken since 1937.
