By Megan Brown, Navy Office of Community Outreach
MILLINGTON, Tenn. - A native of Bakersfield, California, recently completed an intensive 10-week training program to become a member of the elite U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard.
Airman Kevin Chatman, a 2022 Ridgeview High School graduate, joined the Navy six months ago. Today, Chatman serves as a U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guardsman.
"I joined the Navy because it gave me an opportunity to travel the world," said Chatman.
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 like the experiences that I get to have while serving at this command," said Chatman.
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers.
"I am most proud of being able to commit to something and for not giving up on myself," said Chatman.
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Chatman, 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 to me that I am being held to a higher standard," added Chatman.