By Rick Burke, Navy Office of Community Outreach
MILLINGTON, Tenn. - A native of Lawrenceville, Illinois, recently completed an intensive 10-week training program to become a member of the elite U.S. Navy Honor Guard.
"I joined the Navy to support my family and to make something of myself," said Tipton. "During my time in the Navy, I have learned the importance of teamwork and attention to detail."
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.
"Serving in the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard is a high honor," said Tipton. "To perform honors for our fallen sailors and to give them a proper send off and burial is something I take great pride in."
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, Tipton is most proud of passing his ceremonial guardsman training.
"I'm proud of passing the training that was set before me to make me the ceremonial guardsman I am today," said Tipton.
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Tipton, 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.
"The Navy gives me a sense of pride and duty," added Tipton. "It’s a feeling I had never experienced before with past work. I look forward to traveling and visiting new places."