Kunsan Honor Guard looking for the best

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Taylor Curry
  • 8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea --  Are you interested in presenting your nation's colors at an official military function for your unit? The Kunsan Air Base Honor Guard is currently looking for sharp, hardworking Airmen to be a part of the team. With change of command season going on, the honor guard needs assistance making sure there is manning for those ceremonies.

The mission of the Kunsan AB Honor Guard is, as stated in the Honor Guard Charge, to represent every member, past and present, of the United States Air Force. The mission is only accomplished by the efforts of the sharpest and most dedicated individuals on the team. Once members are fully trained, they represent Kunsan and the Air Force at base-wide details to include posting of colors at wing ceremonies, community events, cordons for distinguished guests and retirements.

"The camaraderie I've witnessed during our ceremonies is like no other," said Tech. Sgt. Joshua Willson, 8th Force Support Squadron food service superintendent and ceremonial guardsman. "It is truly an honor to perform ceremonies that include folding a U.S. flag during memorials and conducting a Prisoner of War table detail."

Being a member of the base honor guard also provides many benefits for new Airmen. Honor guard members demonstrating outstanding service to the program will be considered for the Air Force Achievement Medal. Members must, but are not limited to, complete a minimum of 15 details and attend a minimum of three practices a month to be considered. Professional military bearing and participation will also be considered. Members can also be considered for wing quarterly and annual awards.

"Honor guard is a very important mission because the program represents the honor and professionalism of the wing," added Willson. "As an NCO, I expect all members to perform each detail with competence, sharpness and to uphold the Honor Guard Charge during each ceremony. Airmen interested in joining can really learn a lot about teamwork, discipline and dedication."

Staff Sgt. Joel Varghese, 8th Medical Operations Squadron public heath technician and honor guard trainer, shared his personnel highlights of what it's like to be a part of the honor guard.

"When I see a brand new member of the team who originally had no experience, perfect their performance at a ceremony for the first time, that sense of accomplishment is a very rewarding feeling for me," said Varghese. "I assure you, once you complete a ceremony; you feel this great sense of pride as you represent Kunsan AB."

Practices are held every Tuesday between 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the base theater. Uniform for practice is the sharpest set of ABUs.

For more information, contact the base honor guard at 8FW.honorguardorgbox@us.af.mil.