ANDREWS AFB, Md. –
The Andrews Air Force Base Honor Guard is seeking Airmen interested in joining it's select ranks.
The Honor Guard's primary mission is to perform funeral ceremonies for recognition of military servicemembers and veterans that have passed on. However, they also perform ceremonies for retirements, change of commands, and luncheons, said Tech. Sgt. Keith A. Moss, 316th Wing Honor Guard program manager.
"The families appreciate it so much. They come to you with tear filled eyes. Sometimes that's the only time they interact with the military," said Staff Sgt. Wilber J. McIntosh, Honor Guard member and military flight personnel for the Office of Special Investigations.
Training to become a member of the Honor Guard lasts two weeks. The first week's lessons concentrate on funeral rights, and the second is on Color Guard ceremonies, where Airmen perform movements using demilitarized M1 rifles and flags.
"When we were moving a practice casket with the flag draped over it I realized that we were actually going to be doing this for families of fallen Airmen and felt it an honor," said Senior Airman Kristin M. Cavander, 316th Wing Security Forces.
Ceremonies consist of up to seven members who perform duties to include a firing party, pallbearer responsibilities, taps, and flag ceremony.
Commitment rotates on a three-week cycle, where members are on call, and their shop needs to be able to release them at any time. There is also a practice on the Wednesday prior to the week the individual is scheduled to be on call.
During the two weeks of lessons, Airmen are also fitted for the Honor Guard uniform, which they will wear when performing Honor Guard duties.
If interested in becoming a member of the Honor Guard, or for more information, send an email to honor.guard1@afncr.af.mil.