New Committee Formed
4 years ago
The Board of Directors has approved the creation of the Commemorative Committee within the Society.
Commemorative Committee will coordinate with organizations that have ties to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (TUS), and/or work to honor the TUS and its higher meaning to never forget service and sacrifice. The committee will ensure that the unique relationships from outside organizations, which are woven into the fabric of the TUS and the guard post, are included in the educational mission of the Society while maintaining strong ties with those that support the mission of the Society. The committee will assist with ceremonial planning as requested by outside organizations, as it relates to the TUS and the Sentinel’s that stand the eternal vigil and will coordinate with members to represent the Society as appropriate.
The committee will work closely with the Educational Committee to develop written material relevant to and bringing focus on why the TUS is important and its higher meaning to the American people and like minded organizations. The committee will work closely with the Public Affairs Committee to ensure timely notice and distribution of materials and events related to the TUS and the Sentinels.
Committee Leadership:
Chair: Gavin McIlvenna (1997-98)
- Events Director: Gavin McIlvenna (1997-98)
Domestic Coordinator
International Coordinator
- Centennial of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (1921-2021) Director: Richard Azzaro (1963-65)
- Never Forget Garden Project
Richard Azzaro (1963-65)
Marilyn Wellan (American Rose Society)
- National Salute Project
Richard Azzaro (1963-65)
- Journey Home Project
Richard Azzaro (1963-65)
Dan Smith (ASM)
Sara Corey, TUSAB
- Never Forget Garden Project
Centennial of the Tomb Guard (1926-2026) Director: Chelsea Porterfield (2020-21)
In the coming months you will see changes to the website to reflect the new committee and the projects they are working on. Please check back regularly.
Latest News
Missing In Action
Posted October 14, 2025Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Foundation John Hamre, Neale Cosby, Richard Azzaro, and Mick Kicklighter Dear Colleagues, This article is being forwarded to capture the work of Joe Neubeiser, Joe...
America's Appreciation
Posted October 14, 2025America’s Appreciation Benjamin Bell (2001-2004) Veteran’s Day I wear a lanyard at work. It says “US ARMY,” and I’ve adorned it with accouterments. There are two pins commemorating certifications...
The Ship in the Desert
Posted October 14, 2025The Ship in the Desert Larry Seaton, SHGTUS Historian 14th Tomb Guard Reunion We are all familiar with the connection between the USS Olympia and the WWI Unknown Soldier. The Unknown Soldier’s...
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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.
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Did you know?
Is it true after two years, the guard is given a wreath pin that is worn on their lapel signifying they served as Guard of the Tomb, that there are only 600 presently worn, and that the Guard must obey these rules for the rest of their lives or give up the wreath pin?
The Tomb Guard Identification Badge (TGIB) is awarded after the Sentinel passes a series of tests. The TGIB is permanently awarded after a Sentinel has served nine months as a Sentinel at the Tomb. Over 600 have been awarded since its creation in the late 1950's (on average 10 per year). And while the TGIB can be revoked, the offense must be such that it discredits the Tomb of the Unknowns. Revocation is at the 3rd Infantry Regimental Commander’s discretion and can occur while active duty or even when the Sentinel is a civilian. The TGIB is a full size award, worn on the right pocket of the uniform jacket, not a lapel pin.
