The meaning of honor

The sight of them usually stops all conversation.

Young men and women in dress blues, walking in perfect synchronization; shoes shined, uniforms impeccably prepared and eyes straight ahead.

Whether they are officiating at a military funeral, retirement, or at a change of command ceremony, they immediately command respect.

They are members of Hurlburt Field’s Honor Guard, and they serve as the public face of the military, both past and present.

The Honor Guard originated in 1948 when the Air Force leadership directed the creation of an elite ceremonial unit.  The unit’s mission is “to represent airmen to the American public and the world.”

For more on this story, see the July 14 issue of the Navarre Press or subscribe online.