Color Guard for Division 7 at the District Conference

They practiced every Thursday and Sunday for months. They marched around flotilla buildings. They marched in church auditoriums. They carried rifles, flags and respect for duty. They were the pride of Division 7.

Seven candidates for the honor to be part of the Color Guard for Division 7 at the District Conference and only four would be chosen to execute the presentation.

Guy Mandigo, the newest member of all, handled the tactics. Joe Lori handled the organization and materials. Cliff Martin started the candidates with a beginning drill. Then it was down to business. Practicing turns, maneuvers, and precision marching. By conference time they were ready.

The District Conference was held at the Wyndham Hotel in Tampa. The main ballroom was the site of the District Board Meeting. Sixteen Division Captains and Vice Captains, the Commodore, Vice Commodore, Rear Commodores, representatives from Diraux, the Coast Guard, the Auxiliary, the District Staff Officers and members in general attendance were present and waiting for the Board Meeting to begin.

The Colors had to be presented to start the meeting. The Color Guard was assembled and ready for presentation. Joe Lori led the team down the main aisle to present the Colors to the Commodore and Board. They entered proudly, carrying the Flag of our country and the Auxiliary ensign, and stopped on command in front of the assemblage.

They pivoted expertly, and stood while the National Anthem was sung. They posted the colors and returned to their posts. They exited with heads and hearts proud that they accomplished their duty. After all the practice, it was over in minutes, but it was worth every second to carry out their duty and show all there that there was a new Color Guard in Division 7, one that was ready to serve, respect and honor the colors they carried.