The Gettysburg Guard is operated exclusively for preservation, education, and remembrance. The Gettysburg Guard is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that houses an Honor Guard that represents the United States Army from 1861-1865, a living history organization that portrays the Bureau of Military Information (B.M.I.) and is also the hom
The Gettysburg Guard is operated exclusively for preservation, education, and remembrance. The Gettysburg Guard is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that houses an Honor Guard that represents the United States Army from 1861-1865, a living history organization that portrays the Bureau of Military Information (B.M.I.) and is also the home for the "Rally on the Colors" Podcast. The GUARD has a generational commitment that includes honoring and remembering those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for this Great Nation, with a specific focus on the American Civil War; education through the "Rally on the Colors" Podcast, social media platforms and other informative videos; and by preserving both the battlefields and cemeteries that honor our nation's fallen. Through the combined effort of the Honor Guard, the B.M.I. Living History and the "Rally on the Colors" Podcast, the GUARD aims to raise funds for battlefield and cemetery preservation.
The Badge of the Guard was designed in similar context to the Tomb Guard Badge worn by members of the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment who are tasked with guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
The Badge is designed in the shape of the Keystone. The Keystone representing the State of Pennsylvania, which provided the largest number of soldiers
The Badge of the Guard was designed in similar context to the Tomb Guard Badge worn by members of the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment who are tasked with guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
The Badge is designed in the shape of the Keystone. The Keystone representing the State of Pennsylvania, which provided the largest number of soldiers to fight at the battle of Gettysburg. The Keystone has a red outline symbolizing the bloodshed of those who fought and died during the war. The interior of the Keystone is white, symbolizing a neutrality, equally honoring those who fought and died on both sides. The Keystone is affixed to a black colored ribbon that runs vertically and is commonly referred to as a “mourning band.” The “mourning band” is a symbolism of respect for those who died during the war. Affixed to the top of the “mourning band” is an Eagle. The Eagle, serving as a pin, to affix the entire badge to the GUARD uniform, represents the Eagle affixed to the entry gates of the Gettysburg National Cemetery.
GUARD Members who successfully graduate from the GUARD’s Honor Guard Academy will be awarded their badge with a silver Eagle. GUARD Members who then pass the initial uniform inspection and participate in five (5) Honor Guard events will be awarded a gold Eagle.
Meaning Behind the Name
The name, GETTYSBURG GUARD, was chosen as a representation of the costliest battle fought during the American Civil War, the war and time period specifically chosen to be represented by the GUARD.
Motto of the Gettysburg Guard
"Semper Memoria"
Latin Phrase meaning "Always Remember"
The GUARD's Core Values
Honor
Commitment
Excellence
While the main focus of the Gettysburg Guard is to provide an Honor Guard that participates in ceremonial presentations, participate in living history encampments and battle reenactments while portraying the Bureau of Military Information and to provide unique perspectives on varying topics through the "Rally on the Colors" Podcast, we aim to be an all inclusive organization. Our primary efforts will require a significant amount of logistical, operational and administrative support. If you want to be part of this great organization but don't want to participate in the Honor Guard or Living History, then the Auxiliary is for you.
With the unique creation of the Badge of the Guard, we understand that GUARD members in the Auxiliary may want the opportunity to earn their Badge. Participation in the Honor Guard Academy is not a requirement for the Auxiliary however Auxiliary members may choose to participate in the training and upon graduation will earn their silver Eagle.
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