* NATIONAL HONOR GUARD ACADEMY *
Topic Spotlight
Today's Hot Topic
Honoring our Fallen during a pandemic.
Through observation and conversation we have seen many adaptations in the ways in which we are honoring our fallen. Necessity has bred a need to think outside of the box in ways we never could have imagined but there is no reason to completely abandon our history and traditions or the way in which we pay tribute to our fallen brothers and sisters. Several suggestions can be found on the collaborative document available to download below. Should you find yourself faced with the task of honoring one of your own please feel free to reach out to us with any questions you may have during the planning process.
We must respect the limitations and regulations set forth by our elected officials but always be mindful of our charge to modify, adapt and overcome. We are in the contingency business! Delaying services or just abandoning honors altogether does not have to be the solution unless the family so chooses. Look at ways to stay within the guidelines set forth but to also provide a respectful, timely and appropriate service to recognize the service and sacrifice of the fallen. We have seen many wonderful ways in which teams have been able to still conduct a service while keeping folks safe and heathy. Situations involving communication and cooperation on levels we could have never scripted out in a scenario but tremendous critical thinking and audibles that allow a family, department and community to travel their path of grief and healing.
Other documents below discuss the current information available regarding the Public Safety Officer Benefit with regard to COVID-19. First and foremost, the death of a public safety officer that is related to COVID-19, is NOT a guarantee for the federal benefit. Currently, it is similar to other exposure cases and must be clearly tied and documented to a specific job related exposure. There is a great deal of discussion regarding this topic so stay tuned for updates and addendums.