Program Overview

The Honor Guard (HG) program’s purpose is to serve as the Ceremonial Honor Unit for the Fire District and Firefighters Association at fire service funerals and memorial services. The unit also participates in parades, special events, and other ceremonial occasions.

Management Oversight

The HG program is directed by the Division Chief of Operations with oversight authority delegated to the Battalion Chief and program coordinator. This program does not have any full-time equivalent employees. This program contains the expenses pertaining to general supplies and equipment purchases, and overtime for training and program administration.

Goals and Objectives

• Support District members and their families during times of crisis, such as death or serious injury, by providing emotional, logistical, and financial assistance as needed.
• Honor fallen firefighters with respect and reverence, participating in memorial services and ensuring their sacrifice is acknowledged within the community and the department.
• Represent the District and Association with integrity and pride by participating in ceremonies, posting the colors, and offering support to those in need, upholding the values of compassion and solidarity.

FY 2023-24 Accomplishments

• Developed and launched webpages for the Joint MPFFA/MPFPD Honor Guard.
• Attended and supported major memorial events, including the IAFF Memorial, California Professional Firefighter Memorial, San Mateo County Public Safety Memorial, San Mateo Fire Academy Graduation, and Saint Pius Blue Mass.
• Supported memorial services for San Mateo Consolidated Fire Engineer Mike Ramsey and retired Redwood City Captain Don Horton, honoring their contributions.
• Contributed to the Menlo Park Firefighters Toy Drive using the Honor Guard Trailer and made key equipment purchases, including new American flags, honor guard gear, and upgraded flag poles.
• Enhanced Honor Guard Trailer with new tires and District logo, and expanded membership with new members Firefighter Engineers Alex Bray, Jaden Keil-Ribera, and Eric Annesen.

FY 2024-25 Program Initiatives

• Increase Honor Guard membership by adding 2 younger firefighters and expand recruitment through a video showcasing the Honor Guard’s role and activities.
• Create video lesson plans from the Honor Guard Training Book and publish them for succession planning within the training division.
• Purchase necessary equipment including mounting tools for trailer storage, a trailer storage solution, a new Eagle for the American Flag mount, and uniform items for members.
• Manage event-related expenses, including budgeting for diesel fuel, hotel rooms, and flights for out-of-state events, and ensuring funds for back-fill during events and training video production.
• Participate in local, state, and national events, while sending large flags for cleaning to maintain their condition and appearance.