Westside Story Newspaper – Online The News of The Empire – Sharing the Quest for Excellence
By Rick Burke, Navy Office of Community Outreach
MILLINGTON, TN. – A native of Rancho Cucamonga, California, recently completed an intensive 10-week training program to become a member of the elite U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard.
Seaman Vicktor Flores, a 2013 Chaffey High School graduate, joined the Navy six months ago. Today, Flores serves as a U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guardsman.
“I joined the Navy to serve my country after being influenced by my family’s commitment of service,” said Flores.
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 biggest thing I’ve learned from being in the Navy is leadership,” said Flores.
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 enjoy serving at my current command because I am able to execute ceremonies and missions that very few are fortunate to do in the Navy,” said Flores.
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers.
“I am proud of taking the first step of joining the military, and proud of the fact that I was chosen to be a Ceremonial Guardsman,” said Flores.
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Flores, 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 my family, loved ones and the people that came before me to serve and defend our Constitution,” added Flores.
