DANVILLE, Va. – In an emptied firehouse garage, an empty casket, American and Virginian flags and tables with flags draped over them stood. Their purpose? To help train the next generation of first responder honor guards.
The training, conducted by the National Color Guard Academy, drilled students in various marches typically performed during a funeral or parade.
It also uses several props, including the empty casket, flags and chairs, to help simulate different settings like a funeral home. Doug Swartz, Commanding Officer of the National Honor Guard Academy, detailed some of the training.
“We go through all the elements of basic drill and marching, history and traditions of why we do some of the things we do,” said Swartz.
Attendees came from as far away as Hawaii to take part in the training. The schedule had them drilling all morning and into the afternoon in various settings.
The National Honor Guard Academy is made up of current and retired first responders. The academy travels all over the country, training first responders of all kinds.
For the attendees, it’s all about honoring those who’ve fallen. Loudoun County firefighter Stone Hykes talked about the importance of honoring these first responders.
“They give the ultimate sacrifice. They deserve it; especially if they died in the line of duty. They died doing what they loved. It’s our honor to give them the ultimate respect,” said Hykes.
This message ringing ever true on National EMS Week.
