About Us
Who We Are
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Foundation is a small, independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Simpsonville, Maryland.
While modest in size, our mission is national in scope and enduring in purpose: to ensure that the legacy of those who gave their lives for the United States in armed conflict—or who remain missing—and the families who carry that sacrifice are never forgotten.
Why the Tomb Matters
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is more than a monument.
It is a unifying symbol of service, sacrifice, and national responsibility—embodying what connects us and transcends our differences.
We use the example and symbolism of the Tomb to guide our work, ensuring that remembrance is not passive, but actively carried forward.
How Our Mission Comes to Life
Our mission is expressed through carefully designed initiatives that translate remembrance into action, including national ceremonies, educational programs, and acts of personal and collective honor.
National remembrance ceremonies
Community-based acts of honor
Commemorations with our Allies
Educational initiatives for future generations
Our Founders
John J. Hamre, PhD
Former Deputy Secretary of Defense
Col. (Retired) Neale Cosby
First officer awarded the Tomb Sentinel Badge
Richard A. Azzaro, Esq
Former US Agency General Counsel and Tomb Sentinel
Lt. Gen. (Retired) Mick Kicklighter
Former Department of Defense Inspector General
Our Board of Directors
John J. Hamre, PhD
Chairman and Director
Richard A. Azzaro, Esq
President and Director
Cameron Cosby
Secretary/Treasurer and Director
Lt. Gen. (Retired) Mick Kicklighter
Director
Donna Houle
Director
Cmd. Sgt. Maj. (Retired) Dan Smith
Director
Sgt. Maj. (Retired) Gavin McIlvenna
Director
Our Staff
Col. (Retired) Joe Buche
Executive Director
Hot Link to Joe's Email
Lt. Col. (Retired) CJ Buche
Head Volunteer
We are not an element of nor endorsed by Arlington National Cemetery or the US Government.
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Foundation
Rekindling America’s sacred duty to those who served and sacrificed for our country.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Foundation is an IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. The Foundation is not an element of, nor endorsed by, Arlington National Cemetery or the United States Government.
Follow us HERE on Bluesky
*We use Bluesky because it emphasizes privacy, reduced tracking, and respectful discourse. You do not need an account to view our posts.
© Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Foundation. All rights reserved.
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Foundation
Rekindling America’s sacred duty to those who served and sacrificed for our country.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Foundation is an IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. The Foundation is not an element of, nor endorsed by, Arlington National Cemetery or the United States Government.
Follow us HERE on Bluesky
*We use Bluesky because it emphasizes privacy, reduced tracking, and respectful discourse. You do not need an account to view our posts.
© Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Foundation. All rights reserved.