Allen County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard

Officers from other outlying county law enforcement agencies are also invited to train and participate. The Honor Guard is given the honor and responsibility of providing official Allen County Sheriff’s Office representation at funeral services for members of the surrounding law enforcement community who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. They also participate in the funerals of active and retired Sheriff’s Office personnel and other members of the law enforcement community. In addition, they represent the Sheriff’s Office during parades and all other official functions as designated by the sheriff. At least two members of the Honor Guard may attend out of county funerals involving line of duty deaths.

Some of the duties that the members may be required to coordinate during a memorial or funeral service include posting at the casket of the deceased, pallbearers, escorting the casket, folding the flag that was draped over the casket as a Color Guard, and a firing detail.

The Honor Guard performs as the Color Guard for parades and official functions. The unit typically carries the United States Flag and the Ohio State Flag. Two rifle bearing deputies flank the flag bearers. Annually, the Honor Guard joins the Lima Police Department Honor Guard as a combined unit during the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #21 Police Memorial Service during their National Police Memorial Week service.

All deputies are assigned to the Honor Guard as part of their probation period to learn the drill and ceremonies of military functions. After probation, those interested may volunteer to be a permanent part of the unit. The commander and coordinators select the permanent members. Honor Guard members are familiar with military drills that require the shouldering of a rifle and firing of the 21 gun salute.