The Mississippi State Fire Academy’s Honor Guard recently had a rare privilege. On December 9-13, they traveled to Washington, D.C. for training with Hotel Company, 1st Battalion, 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard). The Old Guard is responsible for the sentinels who guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. They also provide memorial affairs to honor our fallen soldiers, and ceremonies and special events such as the Presidential funeral that took place only the week before the State Fire Academy Honor Guard’s trip.
Honor Guard members received one-on-one training in drill and ceremony; movement with colors (indoors and outdoors); flag folding and unfolding ceremonies; casket ceremonies, with and without flag folding; and, introductory training in firing party operations. All of these activities are directly related to those the Mississippi State Fire Academy’s Honor Guard regularly performs for the fire service here in the state.
During their visit, Honor Guard members also were able to see the Capitol, and they even met with Mississippi Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith and Roger Wicker. Honor Guard members are very grateful to the Senators for taking time to meet with them.
Mississippi State Fire Academy Honor Guard members appreciate this incredible opportunity to learn how to represent and pay tribute to Mississippi’s firefighters in even more meaningful ways.
