Honor Guard

The Royal Oak Fire Department Honor Guard was formed in the wake of the tragic losses of September 11, 2001. This elite team proudly represents the department, IAFF Local 431, and the City of Royal Oak throughout the local area. The Honor Guard has served as representatives at the annual Blue Mass honoring Fire and Police at the Church of Shrine of the Little Flower, lead parades on Memorial Day, Veteran's Day, St. Patrick's Day, and even a funeral to honor a fallen brother firefighter.

On September 30, 2003, the Royal Oak community suffered the tragic loss of its Fire Marshal Larry Zimmerman. The Honor Guard stood as constant guards at his casket at the funeral home as a final salute. On October 4, 2003, members of the Honor Guard carried Fire Marshal Zimmerman from St. Mary church and placed him atop a fire engine caisson and lead the slow procession down Main Street to his final resting place. The flag, adorning his casket, was sharply folded, and presented to his wife, Cathy.

The Honor Guard also conducts an annual tribute to the victims of September 11th on that date at fire station #1.

This organization is comprised of an all volunteer squad representing firefighters, as well as the department's officer corps. Training is conducted monthly, and has been conducted alongside fire departments from several local cities, the Royal Oak Police Department, as well as our own bagpiper, Firefighter Brian Gothard. To request the presence of this elite unit, please call Firefighter Jeff Strock through the Royal Oak Fire Department main telephone number (248)246-3800.

Last Updated on 3/19/04
By ROFD

Attachment	Size
rofdhg.jpg	37.39 KB