Tomb Guards Never Forget: The Unknowns
8 years ago
I cry when I hear the national anthem of the United States, The Star-Spangled Banner. The tears, a mixture of joy, pride and sadness. Joy for the fact that I live in a country where I am free to become whatever I dream. Pride in the fact that I was fortunate to serve in the United States Army and represent our nation during this anthem. Sadness for the loss of those that sacrificed all in order to allow me this wonderful opportunity.
None sacrificed more than the Unknowns. I always believed that there are certain things that everyone gets to keep, even in death. Like their name. The Unknowns gave up their name, their identity, their opportunity to live on forever memorialized for you, for me, for their families. For this great nation.
So every time I hear The Star-Spangled Banner, I remember that sacrifice. We as Tomb Guards never forget and we will walk through the rain, the sleet, the snow and extreme heat to preserve that memory. So that anybody whoever visits that hallowed ground will they, themselves, never forget. From the darkest hours of night to the brightest hours of day and years after we have left our honored post, we Tomb Guards never forget.
by Chad Cavanaugh, Badge 408
Latest News
April 16, 2021 - Centennial Tidbit #26 Released
Posted April 16, 2021 in CentennialSince our last update we have released new tidbit spotlighting on the answer to the question “What does the Tomb of the Unknow Soldier mean to you?” and “What does the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier...
TUS100 Update – April 14, 2021
Posted April 14, 2021 in CentennialCheck out the latest UPDATE on TUS100 as well as the release of Centennial Tidbit #25 - Special Drummers of The United States Army Band, Part...
March 23, 2021 – TUS100 Update
Posted March 23, 2021 in CentennialDid you know? On March 24, 1926 the Secretary of War issued orders to the Commanding General of the Military District of Washington to the "Establishment of an Armed Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown...
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?
What is it like to guard in bad weather?
The Sentinels at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier are completely dedicated to their duty of guarding the Tomb. In fact, line eight of our Sentinel's Creed refers to the "discomfort of the elements". Because of their dedication, the weather does not bother them. In fact, it is considered an honor to walk the mat during inclement weather. It gets cold, it gets hot and the mission continues as it has unbroken since 1937.