Programs
SHGTUS Programs
Community Presentation
The heart and soul of our programs is our free Community Presentation. Upon request, the Society will attempt to schedule a former Tomb Guard to make a presentation and answer questions relating to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, each of the Unknown Soldiers buried on the east plaza of the Memorial Amphitheater, the Sentinels that stand the eternal vigil, and the Society.
This is a perfect opportunity for schools, civic organizations, fraternities and sororities, and businesses to introduce their organizations to this most sacred shrine. When requesting a presentation, please consider planning for a 1 hour presentation which will include time for questions and answers. These can be in person or virtually upon request.
In lieu of scheduling a Community Presentation, the Society produced a video for public viewing.
Tomb Guard Assistance Program
The Society provides the following services to current and former Tomb Guards:
- Direct assistance to the current Tomb Guard platoon.
- Transition mentoring program for current Tomb Guards transitioning from active duty to the civilian workplace.
- Provides Bereavement services and assistance to surviving
family members upon the death of a Tomb Guard.
- It is recommended that all Tomb Guards download the SHGTUS Bereavement Services questionnaire and send it in to the Bereavement Director to keep on file, regardless of membership.
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?
How many times will a Sentinel be on duty during the shift?
Each Relief has a 24 hour rotational work day. Ideally, four qualified Sentinels, one Relief Commander (RC), one Assistant Relief Commander (ARC), and several Sentinels in training comprise the Relief. The daily walk schedule is made by the RC or ARC and is dependent on the number of Sentinels who are proficient enough to guard the Tomb in front of the public. Generally, the Sentinel will do several walks back to back and then be done for the day. However, in extreme cases, Sentinels have been known to go back-to-back (every other walk) for the entire shift.