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?
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).
