0166
Stephen Lucas
Tomb Position
SentinelTomb Relief
1stHighest Military Rank
SFCTomb Dates
Sep 1975 - Feb 1977Society Membership
Lifetime MemberHome City / State
Roanoke, VACurrent City / State
Fort Worth, TXTomb Reflections
I can remember when I was walking the mat on July 5, 1976 when the Gueen of England came an laid a wreath at the unknown soldier. I was posted in the box for approximately four hours until the ceremony was concluded; the Queen of England walked over to me as I was standing in the box, smiled and remarked my men are much better than you. To this day I still see her and remember her remarks. I just though to my self and laughed, "There is no one better than us."Awards & Decorations
MSM,5 ARCOM, 2 OS, 6 GCM, 2 ND, Drill Sgt Badge, TUS badge,
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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?
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).
