And while the TGIB can be revoked, the offense must be such that it discredits the Tomb of the Unknowns. Over 600 have been awarded since its creation in the late 1950's (on average 10 per year). The TGIB is permanently awarded after a Sentinel has served nine months as a Sentinel at the Tomb.
The Tomb Guard Identification Badge (TGIB) is awarded after the Sentinel passes a series of tests. Is it true after two years, the guard is given a wreath pin that is worn on their lapel signifying they served as Guard of the Tomb, that there are only 600 presently worn, and that the Guard must obey these rules for the rest of their lives or give up the wreath pin? Is it true they cannot swear in public for the rest of their lives? If they are of legal age, they may drink except while on duty. They do have a living quarters under the steps of the amphitheater where they stay during their 24 hour shifts. Myer (the Army post located adjacent to the cemetery) or off base if they like. Sentinels live either in a barracks on Ft. However, there is NO set time for service there. The average tour at the Tomb is about a 18 months. Is it true a Sentinel must commit for two years to guard the Tomb, live in a barracks under the tomb, and cannot drink any alcohol on or off duty for the rest of their lives. The Tomb is guarded, and has been guarded, every minute of every day since 1937. During the hours the cemetery is closed, the guard is changed every 2 hours. The Guard is changed every thirty minutes during the summer (April 1 to Sep 30) and every hour during the winter (Oct 1 to Mar 31). Gloves are moistened to improve the grip on the rifle. The Sentinel then repeats this over and over until the the Guard Change ceremony begins. They face the Tomb at each end of the 21 step walk for 21 seconds. They then turn to face back down the mat, change the weapon to the outside shoulder, mentally count off 21 seconds, then step off for another 21 step walk down the mat. The Sentinel does not execute an about face, rather they stop on the 21st step, then turn and face the Tomb for 21 seconds. How long does the Sentinel hesitate after the facing movement to begin the return walk? Is the rifle carried on the same shoulder all the time?
It alludes to the twenty-one gun salute, which is the highest honor given any military or foreign dignitary. How many steps does the Sentinel take during their 'walk' by the Tomb of the Unknowns and why? Additionally, they have Physical Training, Tomb Guard training, and haircuts to complete before the next work day. It takes the average Sentinel 8 hours to prep their uniform for the next work day. However, over the years it has been different. How does the guard rotation work? Is it an 8 hour shift?Ĭurrently, the Tomb Guards work on a three Relief (team) rotation - 24 hours on, 24 hours off, 24 hours on, 24 hours off, 24 hours on, 96 hours off.