Posted on Apr 18, 2014

Color Guard Supporting Community Events

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I have been the Color Sergeant for my units Joint Service Color Guard for over 2 years now. We have supported many community events such as the annual Veteran's Day Parade, the Policeman's Ball, Wounded Warrior Ride, and the POW/MIA Remembrance Ceremony and many others. I firmly believe that we have an obligation to show our community that we support them 100%.

That being said, this year the Color Guard received a request to parade our colors for the Key West Pride Parade. This is an event that marches in support of Gay Rights and the "One Human Family" concept. I have done my own research and the event is not distasteful or anything. It almost looks like a Veterans Day Parade just with a rainbow flag instead of American Flags.

I guess my question is does anyone think that it would cast a negative light if the Color Guard were to march in the parade? I have had conversations with a lot of people. Many support the idea and many do not.

The Color Guard would be placed in the front of the parade directly behind the Chief of Police who would be leading and we would be followed by the local fire deportment with a few trucks. I understand that this is a touch subject for some people, but I'm trying to look at it from a professional stand point of the Color Guard acting in an official capacity. Thoughts?

Posted >1 y ago

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SGT John Phillips

Posted >1 y ago

I think it would be okay to an extent. I'm not in anymore but I do know soldiers are told to do many different details. I personally would not want to do it due to my personal beliefs on the topic. Which brings me to my point in think it is ok but the soldiers doing this detail should be given the opportunity to opt out if they don't want to do it. Be a voluntary detail due to the controversial subject.

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SGT Ben Keen

Posted >1 y ago

That's a great question and as you pointed out a topic that can bring both support and disapproval.

Here is my two cents; you will regardless of the research and things you do catch heat over this. People will see it as an act of the US Military supporting the organization and that will not sit right with some.

However, others will see it as you providing the community with support.

Personally, I don't see an issue with you. If the organizers were trying to have you carry a banner or something that you didn't agree with or went against standing regulations or policies then I think you would have a bigger issue on your hands but from what you shared, it is nothing more than a community group asking for a color guard to be present to show their respect to the country. Seems good to go.

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