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?
Do you guard in a blizzard or a bad thunderstorm?
YES, but the accomplishment of the mission and welfare of the Soldier are never put at risk. The Tomb Guards have contingencies that are ready to be executed if the weather conditions ever place the Soldiers at risk of injury or death (i.e. lightning, high winds, etc). This ensures that Sentinels can continue the mission while ensuring safety. It is the responsibility of the Chain of Command from the Sergeant of the Guard to the Regimental Commander to ensure mission accomplishment and soldier welfare at all times.
It was erroneously reported that during Hurricane Isabel, the Sentinels were ordered to abandon their posts for shelter and that they refused. No such order was ever given. All proper precautions were taken to ensure the safety of the Sentinels while accomplishing their mission. Risk assessments are constantly conducted by the Chain of Command during changing conditions to ensure that soldier welfare is maintained during mission accomplishment.
