0009
Joseph S. Zachwieja Jr.
Tomb Relief
Tomb Dates
Jun 1960 - Jul 1961Society Membership
Lifetime MemberObituary
J.S. Zachwieja, Jr., 80, of Fairfield Harbour, died Tuesday, May 27, 2014 at Grantsbrook Nursing Home in Grantsboro after a long illness. Zach was born in 1934 in Philadelphia, PA. He entered the U.S. Army Infantry in 1951 and served combat tours in Korea and twice in Vietnam where he was awarded two purple hearts and a bronze star. From June 1960 to July 1961, with the 3rd infantry, he was the Platoon leader (Officer-in-Charge) of the guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers in Arlington National Cemetery. As a Lt. Col. he retired in 1972 after 21 years of service. He moved to New Bern (FFH) in 1987 to play golf and enjoy his retirement. He is survived by his wife Patricia "Patty", elder daughter Theresa Cohen of Philadelphia, PA, son Stephen Joseph Zachwieja of Redmond, WA, daughter Alexa Hook of Chesapeake, VA, and six grandchildren.Memories & Condolences
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Did you know?
Is it true a Sentinel must commit for two years to guard the Tomb, live in a barracks under the tomb, and cannot drink any alcohol on or off duty for the rest of their lives.
No, this is a false rumor. The average tour at the Tomb is about a 18 months. However, there is NO set time for service there. Sentinels live either in a barracks on Ft. Myer (the Army post located adjacent to the cemetery) or off base if they like. They do have a living quarters under the steps of the amphitheater where they stay during their 24 hour shifts. If they are of legal age, they may drink except while on duty.
