“Those Who Went Before”
The Traverse City Police Honor Guard is comprised of five officers who have committed themselves to the time and training required for the specialized duties. They are highly respected for their attention to detail and precision in representing the Department. Every member of the unit is a graduate of the nationally recognized DFL/Goshen Police Honor Guard Training Camp. The unit has grown from an informal group of officers to a well-equipped and trained Honor Guard Unit that is frequently called upon to represent the Traverse City Police Department. In 2021, Jennilyn Oster was assigned to the unit as a bagpiper. She has performed at various law enforcement functions including; Police Memorials, 9/11 Memorials, NMC Police Academy Graduation, and funerals of law enforcement officers.
The Honor Guard regularly participates in many community events such as the National Cherry Festival, National Police Week, Peace Officers' Memorial Day, 9/11 Memorial Services, National Day of Prayer, and Flag Day at the Elks Lodge. The Honor Guard also presents the National Colors at local high school and professional sporting events.
The most important function that the Honor Guard performs is the attendance and paying respect to the families and communities of officers who lose their lives in the line of duty and paying tribute to the deaths of retired Traverse City Police Officers and their families.
To inquire as to the availability of the Honor Guard for a funeral or community function, please contact Chief Matthew Richmond at (231) 995-5159 or email at mrichmond@traversecitymi.gov