Area Native Becomes Member Of Elite Navy Honor Guard

MILLINGTON, Tenn. — A native of St. Louis, Mo., recently completed an intensive 10-week training program to become a member of the elite U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard.

Airman Joseph Parker, a 2025 Oakville High School graduate, joined the Navy six months ago. Today, Parker serves as a U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guardsman.

“I joined the Navy to ensure a better future for myself and my future family,” Parker said.

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.

“I like the environment,” said Parker. “Everyone here puts a lot of time and effort into the small things at this command, and every little detail is perfected here. I like to surround myself with hard-working people.”

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.

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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.

“Serving in the Navy means being a part of something bigger than myself, and it means giving my all for my country and those dearest to me,” Parker said.

The Ceremonial Guard is comprised of the drill team, color guard, casket bearers and firing party.

There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers.

“My biggest accomplishment is being able to serve my country,” Parker said. “I always wanted to serve my country, and I get to do so here in the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard.”

As Parker and other sailors continue to perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.

“I learned to give it my all every day and give 100% of what I have to give,” Parker added. “I also learned to take pride in little accomplishments and embrace the struggle.”

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