50th Anniversary of the Tomb Guards

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March 1998:

“My name is Scott Tish. I currently reside in Madison, Wisconsin. I work as an EMS helicopter pilot for the University of Wisconsin Hospital, but 22 years ago I had a very different job. I was a Sentinel of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, 3rd relief.

I write to you now for two reasons. First, I would like to thank you for your site. It has helped to keep me close to a very special time in my life. Guarding the Tomb was quite possibly the most fulfilling time in my life and your site has helped me regain that feeling I had so many years ago.

Secondly, I would like to enlist your help. April 1998 marks the 50th Anniversary of the guarding of the Tomb by the The Old Guard. On the weekend of April 4-5, former and current sentinels will gather for a reunion and wreath laying. Only 454 soldiers have been awarded the Tomb Guard Identification Badge. Out of those 454, only half have been located. Anything you can do to let former sentinels know about the reunion would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Scott Tish”


Lieutenant Jeff Davis, United States Army

By: John Porter

“On April 5, 1998, current and former sentinels of the Tomb of the Unknowns gathered together for a reunion to honor those who have protected our beloved Unknowns. Visibly absent from this reunion was Lieutenant. Jeff Davis.

Lieuteant Davis, a stellar soldier and a great friend, served as a Tomb Sentinel for 4 years, became an Army Ranger and joined the elite group of soldiers in the Special Forces. Lieutenant Davis then went on the graduate from the University of Michigan to became an officer in the highly competitive field of aviation. Failiure to this man was inconceivable.

On January 31, 1998, Lieutenant Jeff Davis was killed as he preformed a routine maintainance check on his UH-60 “Blackhawk” helicopter. At the age of 31, Jeff is survived by his wife and two children (ages 2 and 4).

Of all fellow Sentinels at the Tomb of the Unknowns, I held the highest respect and admiration for Jeff. He was the top of an elite group of soldiers. Lieutenant Jeff Davis will never be forgotten by all those who had the honor and of serving with him.

“This soldier will in honored glory rest under our eternal reverence.”

Sentinels, Tomb of the Unknowns

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