Jonathan Eastham

Tomb Position

Sentinel

Tomb Relief

2nd

Highest Military Rank

Sergeant

Tomb Dates

May 1972 - Aug 1973

Military Dates

Sep 1970 - Sep 1973

Society Membership

Lifetime Member

Home City / State

Hyattsville, MD

Current City / State

Butler, MD

Tomb 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

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