The Unknowns Project
13 years ago
The Society would like to introduce a film project - The Unknowns - in support [1] of its producer, Ethan Morse. Ethan is a Tomb Guard Member of the Society.
The Unknowns, as described by Ethan, is:
This “Living Documentary” is the first of it’s kind, and will cover portions of the rigorous training cycle of the Sentinels that guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This training program is highly selective, and boasts the least awarded badge currently awarded by the United States Army.
Generally, the process to become a Sentinel lasts up to 12 months. During this time, the standards and discipline required to guard “The Unknowns” is imparted from seasoned “Badge Holders” to the “New Men”.
In our desire to illuminate the sacrifice given by the “The Unknowns”, we have launched this project in order to illustrate the same ideals held by those who now preserve their memory.
And here is a video update on the project. We will continue to provide updates as they become available.
On behalf of the Society, we salute Ethan and his team as they educate the public on the significance of the Unknowns laid to rest at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the individuals (Tomb Guards) who preserve their memory.
Dann G. Druen and Benjamin Bell
Co-Editors
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...
Support the Society
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).
