I have been the Color Sergeant for my units Joint Service Color Guard for over 2 years now. We have supported many community events such as the annual Veteran's Day Parade, the Policeman's Ball, Wounded Warrior Ride, and the POW/MIA Remembrance Ceremony and many others. I firmly believe that we have an obligation to show our community that we support them 100%.
That being said, this year the Color Guard received a request to parade our colors for the Key West Pride Parade. This is an event that marches in support of Gay Rights and the "One Human Family" concept. I have done my own research and the event is not distasteful or anything. It almost looks like a Veterans Day Parade just with a rainbow flag instead of American Flags.
I guess my question is does anyone think that it would cast a negative light if the Color Guard were to march in the parade? I have had conversations with a lot of people. Many support the idea and many do not.
The Color Guard would be placed in the front of the parade directly behind the Chief of Police who would be leading and we would be followed by the local fire deportment with a few trucks. I understand that this is a touch subject for some people, but I'm trying to look at it from a professional stand point of the Color Guard acting in an official capacity. Thoughts?
I don't think it would put a negative light on the color guard itself. It may bring a lot of comments and dissapproval.
Remember, your team is not authorized to carry any non-military flag (Army and Air Force may carry a state or foreign national flag in the color guard).
The final decision was made based on the notion that we volunteered to serve our country. We volunteered to fight for and protect the rights of every American citizen regardless of race, color, creed, gender, or lifestyle preference and that is what a Color Guard represents. The Color Guard represents the services that we volunteered for and the nation that we protect. I am extremely proud of my Color Guard. They performed flawlessly and professionally as they have always done.
Every senior leader both Officer and Enlisted agreed that this was the right decision and the City of Key West was extremely appreciative of their support for the community.
I believe it may cause a bit of discussion at the headquarters level before a decision ismade and hope you will post letting us know what the outcome of the decision came to be (for general interest). I know some will agree and some will not, however, I will not be surprised if the Color Guard is directed to participate. The liberalization of thoughts and views of the country, decisions by our leadership have madated it is what it is.
I'm sure you keep your Color Guard uniform ready at all times....and think this will be one of them as well. Good luck!
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