By Stephanie Fox, Navy Office of Community Outreach
(MILLINGTON, Tenn. – November 7, 2022) – A native of Reisterstown, Maryland, recently completed an intensive 10-week training program to become a member of the elite U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard.
Seaman Briasia Rondon, a 2021 Franklin High School graduate, joined the Navy five months ago. Today, Rondon serves as a U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guardsman.
“I joined the Navy so I could travel the world and create for myself a unique and powerful life experience,” said Rondon.
According to Rondon, there are many skills to be learned through military service.
“I have learned how to be more disciplined and self-sufficient through the Navy, which has made me mature quickly,” said Rondon. “I have also learned the meaning of time management and attention to detail.”
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.
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.
“I have learned in the Navy that it is better to put others before yourself and that teamwork is the greatest asset when working towards a goal,” said Rondon.
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.
The Ceremonial Guard is comprised of the drill team, color guard, casket bearers, and firing party.
“I most enjoy serving and working in the military here at the Ceremonial Guard because of the strong sense of teamwork and comradery,” said Rondon. “I also appreciate being here in the Guard because it is similar to what I did in JROTC in high school and so I am familiar with many aspects of military ceremonial drills, which is what we specialize in here at the Guard.”
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community, and careers.
“I am proud to have made it through boot camp and Alpha Company training and to have the opportunity and honor of joining the elite ranks of the Ceremonial Guard,” said Rondon.
As a member of the U.S. Navy, Rondon, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs, and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.
“To me, serving in the Navy means service to my country and defending the people I love,” added Rondon.