Fire and Rescue members graduate National Honor Guard Academy

On Friday, September 17, 2021, four members of the Warren County Department of Fire and Rescue Services graduated the National Honor Guard Academy which was held in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

“Upon completing this program, our staff will be assigned to assemble our Department of Fire and Rescue Services first ever Honor Guard to represent our community and serve our members should situations arise” stated Fire Chief James Bonzano. “This honor guard will provide one of the most visible and positive images for our department. Be it a parade, groundbreaking ceremony, sporting event, retirement or funeral, the presence alone of the honor guard immediately draws attention and raises the formality of the event” continued Chief Bonzano.

Fire Chief James Bonzano and Fire Marshal Gerry Maiatico join the Warren County Fire and Rescue Honor Guard Graduates in Carlisle, Pennsylvania for their Graduation Event. From Right to Left: Fire Chief James G. Bonzano II, Honor Guard Commander/Lieutenant Scott Richardson, Firefighter Brian Foley, Lieutenant Anthony Hitt, Jr., Firefighter Matthew Hunt, Fire Marshal Gerry Maiatico. 

This weeklong academy consisted of a balance of informative classroom presentations and hands-on repetition of practical skills in an intense training format. Based on three key principles: preserve pride, honor and tradition; pay precise attention to detail; and build a network of local and national resources, this academy included training on basic drill and ceremonial movements; church and casket protocol; and flag etiquette.

Lieutenant Scott Richardson, Fire and Rescue Honor Guard Commander stated, “Our honor guard will be built on a foundation of honor, dignity and respect, with the utmost concern for the needs and wishes of the community, department members or affected family members.” “Our Honor Guard members share an overwhelming pride in the County of Warren and the Department of Fire and Rescue Services and will strive to reflect a positive image of both.”

For more information on the Warren County Department of Fire and Rescue Service Honor Guard or to learn how the Honor Guard can participate in your event, contact Commander Scott Richardson at 540-636-3830.