MILLINGTON, Tenn. - A native of Parksley, Virginia, recently completed an intensive 10-week training program to become a member of the elite U.S. Navy Honor Guard.
Fireman Traquon Hickman, a 2018 Arcadia High School graduate, joined the Navy eight months ago. Today, Dixon serves as an U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guardsman.
"I joined just as something to do, not knowing the connections and different people that I'd meet," said Hickman. "Becoming a sailor and then becoming a Ceremonial Guardsman is the best thing that has happened in my career yet!"
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 the insight it has brought me," said Hickman. "I've gone to Arlington National Cemetery countless times, performed ceremonies for high ranking members of other nations and have laid our fallen sailors to rest."
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, Hickman is most proud of becoming a Navy Ceremonial Guardsman.
"I’m proud of joining this elite brotherhood that many will never get to see because only a
few are selected and get to actually become a U.S. Ceremonial Guardsman," said Hickman. "I’m honored that I was selected out of many to come here."
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Hickman, 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 protecting our country and allies with honor," added Hickman.