Republic native Krueger becomes member of elite Navy Honor Guard

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Bryan Niegel, Navy Office of Community Outreach
A native of Republic recently completed an intensive 10-week training program to become a member of the elite U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard.
Constructionman Gavin Krueger, a 2023 Republic High School graduate, joined the Navy six months ago. Krueger now serves as a U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guardsman.
“I joined the Navy to continue a family tradition,” said Krueger.
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.
“The most important thing I have learned since joining the Navy is that the Navy can teach you a lot and gives you important life skills,” said Krueger.
Sailors of the Ceremonial Guard are hand selected while they are attending boot camp at Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Ill. 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.
“It’s an honor to be a part of the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard and to be a part of all the ceremonies we do here,” said Krueger. “This is also a great start to my Navy career.”
There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers.
“I am most proud of completing ceremonial guard training,” said Krueger.
As Krueger and other sailors continue to perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“Serving in the Navy to me means that I get to honor and serve my country,” added Krueger.