HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – Officials from the Patriot Honor Guard are currently seeking active duty Airmen to serve as full-time ceremonial guardsman for six-month rotations.
Positions are available for Airmen in the ranks of airman first class to technical sergeant, as well as second lieutenants to captains.
“We’re looking to expand our team with quality Airmen who feel a calling to our mission to honor our fallen brothers and sisters,” said Tech. Sgt. Mourice McDuffie, 66th Force Support Squadron noncommissioned officer in charge of the Patriot Honor Guard.
On average, the honor guardsmen here support more than 2,000 annual events throughout New England and New York, rendering military honors at veterans’ funerals, and comfort to families left behind.
McDuffie said while funeral services can be emotionally charged, they reinvigorate the team’s motivation for why they serve in that role.
“I cannot overstate the thanks and appreciation we receive from our community,” he said. “It offers such affirmation and builds confidence, as well as our pride in what we do as honor guardsmen.”
Additionally, officials said experience as an honor guardsmen can offer other benefits to a member’s career; sometimes making them more competitive for boards and promotions.
“Diversity in your military record is important, especially for professional growth,” said McDuffie. “Widening your Air Force scope, and stepping out of your comfort zone, ultimately is what makes us stronger leaders.”
To apply for the Patriot Honor Guard, Airmen should first receive approval from their organizational leaders, noting the commitment is full time for six months.
Hopefuls should then contact Hanscom.Honor.Guard@us.af.mil for the official application form. Airmen must also submit a medical form, a copy of their single unit retrieval form, their most recent physical assessment results, and an official photo of themselves in their service blues.
Airmen with shaving waivers are eligible to apply, said McDuffie.
Interested Airmen are also invited to attend and participate in the Patriot Honor Guard’s training sessions, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 to 10 a.m. at Building 1210.
“We invite everyone to visit our environment and what we do, and decide for yourself if the Patriot Honor Guard is something you can see yourself a part of,” said McDuffie.
For additional information, email Mourice.McDuffie@us.af.mil, or call 781-225-5900.