Airman Jarrod Decamp

MILLINGTON, Tenn. – A native of Cape Coral recently completed an intensive 10-week training program to become a member of the elite U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard.

Airman Jarrod Decamp, a 2017 Ida Baker High School graduate, joined the Navy six months ago. Today, Decamp serves as a U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guardsman.

“I joined the Navy because I wanted to carry on the proud military tradition of my family,” said Decamp. “Both my father and older sister served in the military. I also wanted a chance to travel and pay for my education.””

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.

“A significant lesson I have learned since joining the Navy is the deep importance of attention to detail and sensory awareness,” said Decamp. “Most importantly, I have learned that leadership is an ever-evolving skill that we must endlessly work to develop and continue to refine.”

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.

Casket bearers carry the Navy’s past service members to their resting ground. Whether it is in Arlington National Cemetery, or another veteran’s cemetery.

The firing party renders the 21 Gun Salute, the signature honor of military funerals, during every Navy Funeral at Arlington National Cemetery.

There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers.

“I am most proud of completing Alpha Company Training and to have the honor of joining the ranks of this elite command,” said Decamp. “This place has taught me an unbelievable amount of perseverance and that I can do anything if I set my mind to it and give my all.”

As a member of the U.S. Navy, Decamp, 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 standing up for the rights of this country and all those that live in this country,” added Decamp. “It means refining myself as a warrior and as a man.”