Laughlin's Honor Guard looking for sharp Airmen

  • Published
  • By 47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
  • 47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  There's a group of Airmen at Laughlin that stand for duty, honor and valor.

That small group of Airmen is known as Laughlin's Honor Guard.

The honor guard's main focus is to provide military honors for events such as funerals, community events and official military ceremonies such as graduations and retirements.

The Laughlin Honor Guard is a steady commitment for 17 Airmen right now, but they are trying to boost their numbers to at least 30, according to Senior Airman Kimberly Lawton, honor guard NCO in charge.

"We cover nearly 35 thousand square miles along the Texas border," said Airman Lawton. "It's usually the same few Airmen performing the details, so it would be a tremendous help to have more Airmen commit to such an remarkable responsibility."

Honor Guard members are expected to meet and exceed all requirements as an Airmen, such as dress and appearance, Air Force Core Values and military bearing, Airman Lawton said.

"Honor guard is a one year commitment and is solely a volunteer opportunity for enlisted and officers alike, said Airman Lawton. "During the year commitment, Airmen can look forward to performing up to three details a month and practice at least once a week."

For Senior Airman Nichole Boardman, an honor guard member for more than a year, she said the duty is challenging at times yet it's a bitter sweet feeling.

"It's very sad to see the pain in families eyes when you perform funeral honors but it's also very rewarding to feel their appreciation for what we do," she said.

It might be challenging at times but being a guardsmen can be a lot of fun too, Airman Boardman said.

"It's truly an honor to say you are a Ceremonial Guardsman," said Airman Lawton. "We are the epitome of what the Air Force stands for; we give our time to give grieving families support and memories they may never forget."

Airman Lawton encourages anybody who would like to be a ceremonial guardsman to look into the honor guard program.

Anyone interested in being a part of the Laughlin honor guard should contact Senior Airman Lawton at 298-5633.