+ DONATE • FREE CPR/STB • RIDE WITH US • JOIN US Honor Guard Mission The Honor Guard serves as the “guardians of the colors” by displaying and escorting the National, State and Unit flags on ceremonial occasions at official city- and state-sponsored Emergency Medical Services events and related functions. The team is frequently called upon to present the colors at special rescue squad functions and we consider it an honor to treat our country’s flag with the respect and dignity it deserves. Our most solemn duty is to show honor and respect to fallen members of the city’s entire Emergency Medical Services Department, and on special occasions, serve with the Honor Guards representing the city’s police and fire departments. The Honor Guard stands vigil during the viewing service and upon request, serves as pallbearers and ushers for the funeral service. Our Honor Guard also serves as ambassadors to the public, presenting a positive image of the city’s Emergency Medical Service and volunteer rescue squad system, and assists with its recruitment effort. Background The Virginia Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad Honor Guard is an elite ceremonial element composed of volunteer members of the Virginia Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad. It was formed in 1986 by F. Patrick Kavanaugh, Jr. under the leadership of Captain Earl “Syd” Duval. The Honor Guard proudly represents the entire volunteer rescue squad system at public and special events throughout the City of Virginia Beach. Appearances Contact the Honor Guard scheduler to schedule an appearance by emailing honorguard@vbvrs.org. There is no fee for Honor Guard services and, when possible, advance notice of two weeks is requested. Membership The Honor Guard currently consists of a number of dedicated members under the direction of Captain Jim Obal and Commander Raymond Ford, Sr. Each member maintains his/her immaculate white uniform and is committed to serve at special short-notice events. Membership is open to all members of the Virginia Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad who are highly motivated and maintain exceptionally high standards of appearance and conduct, and show aptitude for ceremonial duty. Service with the Honor Guard is a voluntary labor of love and respect for the Virginia Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad, our community and our nation. Jack Dye Captain - In Memoriam Pat Kavanaugh Founder Jim Obal Captain Ray Ford, Sr. Commander Ron Bauman Susan Bauman Bill Holland Barbara Moore Tija Begovic Rebecca Rydberg Charlie Gurley Ronnie Yancey Walt Yancey Gloria Dunn Roy White Janet Levin