New Committee Formed
11 months 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.
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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 the rifle that the Sentinel carries loaded?
Tomb Guards carry fully functional M14 rifles. Given the current climate surrounding the relatively recent tragic events in Canada (attack upon the guard at the Canadian War Memorial), we will no longer be answering questions relating to specifics regarding current security and armament at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. We appreciate your understanding.
Rest assured, that the US Army has the post secured as it has been since we started guard duty at the shrine in 1926.