MILLINGTON, Tenn. - A native of Tulsa, Oklahoma, recently completed an intensive 10-week training program to become a member of the elite U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard.
Seaman Tanyla Meals, a 2021 graduate of Union High School, joined the Navy six months ago. Today, Meals serves as a U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guardsman.
"I joined the Navy to follow my family lineage of service," said Meals.
Established in 1931, the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard is the official honor guard of the U.S. Navy and is based at Naval District Washington Anacostia Annex in Washington, D.C.
According to Navy officials, the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard’s primary mission is to represent the service in Presidential, Joint Armed Forces, Navy, and public ceremonies in and around the nation’s capital. Members of the Navy Ceremonial Guard participate in some of our nation’s most prestigious ceremonies, including Presidential inaugurations and arrival ceremonies for foreign officials.
Sailors of the Ceremonial Guard are hand-selected while they are attending boot camp at Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Illinois. Strict military order and discipline, combined with teamwork, allow the Ceremonial Guard to fulfill their responsibilities with pride and determination. They are experts in the art of close order drill, coordination and timing.
The Ceremonial Guard is comprised of the drill team, color guard, casket bearers and firing party.
"I enjoy serving in my current command because there is a small percentage of the Navy that's allowed to be a guardsman," said Meals.
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers.
“I'm most proud of graduating boot camp and being selected to the Ceremonial Guard," said Meals.
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Meals, as well as other sailors, know they are part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.
"Serving in the Navy means I can proudly serve my country," added Meals. "I've also learned that accountability and self-determination are very important."