MILLINGTON, Tenn. - A native of Helena, Montana, recently completed an intensive 10-week training program to become a member of the elite U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard.
Airman Benjamin Christensen, a 2021 Helena High School graduate, joined the Navy six months ago. Today, Christensen serves as a U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guardsman.
“I joined the Navy to travel, support my family and possibly become an officer,” said Christensen.
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.
“Washington, D.C. is an amazing melting pot of people and a place that has a lot of history,” said Christensen.
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.
“So far, I have learned the basics of sailing and basic drill,” said Christensen. “I have also learned more about money management and goal setting.”
The Ceremonial Guard is comprised of the drill team, color guard, casket bearers and firing party.
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers.
“Joining the Navy was easy, but staying steadfast is what has gotten me through training and to a successful point in my life,” said Christensen.
As Christensen and other sailors continue to perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“It has been a privilege to be a part of this command,” added Christensen. “Serving with this command has opened up incredible opportunities for my career.”