Tuesday, November 2, 2021

Deer Park native becomes member of elite Navy Honor Guard

By Megan Brown, Navy Office of Community Outreach

MILLINGTON, Tenn. - A native of Deer Park, New York, recently completed an intensive 10-week training program to become a member of the elite U.S. Navy Honor Guard.

Fireman Gregory Dixon, a 2012 Deer Park High School graduate and 2017 graduate of Suffolk County Community College, joined the Navy eight months ago. Today, Dixon serves as an U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guardsman.

"I joined the Navy was so I can have a better life for myself in the future," said Dixon. 

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.

"The best thing about serving with the Ceremonial Guard is making new connections, going to new events, learning more about the Navy and what it has to offer," said Dixon. 

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.

Casket bearers carry the Navy's past service members to their resting ground. Whether it is in Arlington National Cemetery, or another veteran's cemetery. The firing party renders the 21 Gun Salute, the signature honor of military funerals, during every Navy Funeral at Arlington National Cemetery.

Though there are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers, Dixon is most proud of graduating and becoming a Navy Ceremonial Guardsman. 

As a member of the U.S. Navy, Dixon, as well as other sailors, know they are a 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 putting my life on the line and making an effort to be a good example for others," added Dixon.