Honor/Color Guard
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Contact moderator Kim Friede
The Honor Guard is an elite volunteer student organization (grades 9-12) of Saint Thomas Academy. The Honor Guard Cadets are the ambassadors of our school and proudly represent the traditions of Saint Thomas Academy at school and community events; both public and private. Specifically, these events include civic, archdiocesan, school, charitable, and competitive events for the community, as well as bereavement services in support of our large alumni community.
Honor Guard Cadets are trained experts in military customs and courtesies as well as the rich 133-year history of our school. They represent the school, often by request, and regularly serve as VIP escorts and official greeters.
The Color Guard, a detachment within the Honor Guard, is entrusted with the National, State, and School Colors. Our Color Guard coordinates and maintains the proper display of all indoor and outdoor flags at Saint Thomas Academy, officially presents the colors at daily formation, and at most special events at our school. Additionally, the Color Guard is often requested to present our national and state colors at formal community events. Recently, we have presented at Medal of Honor Ceremonies, for the Minnesota Supreme Court, for the Governor and Senators, and for the Minnesota State High School League, the Saint Paul Saints, and the Minnesota Twins.
Membership in the Honor Guard is voluntary, and participation is year-round. Honor Guard members are held to a higher standard of excellence regarding military bearing, uniform appearance, and personal conduct. Membership in the Honor Guard demands a serious commitment from the individual cadet. This is a challenging duty, but one that offers much opportunity and provides a cadet with a deep sense of pride and accomplishment. The impact of the Honor Guard’s service is felt long after graduation for both Cadets and community members.