The fire department here plans to form an honour guard to assist with ceremonial occasions in the community.
“Our members have a strong community spirit and work well as a unit. The formation of an honour guard would be a great service for us to offer,” Fire Chief Chris Harrow reported at the Sept. 2 Minto Council meeting.
“As well, it would be great for morale and team building for Minto Fire, whose members are overwhelmingly in favour of going forward with this project.
“It’s something they are very excited to be able to offer.”
The honour guard is a tradition with a long history in fire services, the military and police departments, Harrow explained. It involves a formal team to march and present the flags of the country, province and municipality in ceremonies. In the past, Harrow noted, the only Minto groups equipped and trained to perform the role are the Royal Canadian Legions in Harriston and Palmerston.
“The Legions have done a great job presenting their colour guard over the years at various functions throughout the municipality. Having a Minto Fire Honour Guard will only enhance these events,” stated Harrow.
Minto Fire has 85 members who have received some training in wearing a proper dress uniform and marching techniques. Harrow said only small changes to the uniforms worn by members are needed to fill the role of a formal honour guard, although poles, flags, harnesses, and lanyards would need to be purchased.
The chief said the necessary funds, about $3,000, are available in the 2014 capital budget and he hopes to have training completed in time to participate in this fall’s Remembrance Day services.
Council received Harrow’s report and endorsed the formation of a Minto Fire Honour Guard.
