Base Honor Guard Program
Mandatory Program
BHG Mandatory
Base Honor Guard is a mandatory USAF program, under the responsibility of installation commanders, which emphasizes the importance of:
- Military customs and courtesies
- Dress and appearance
- Drill and ceremonies
Historical Origin
First Base Honor Guard
The first base honor guard was activated within the 1100th Air Police Squadron, Bolling Field, Washington D.C., and was responsible for maintaining a USAF ceremonial capability in the National Capital Region.
Today's Mission
BHG Primary Mission
The primary mission of today's base honor guard program is to employ, equip, and train USAF members to provide professional military funeral honors for:
- Active service members
- Retired members
- Veterans of the U.S. Air Force
Member Source
BHG Selections
Members are usually volunteers from the installation host and tenant units, with selections generally coming from Airman Basic to Technical Sergeant.
January 2000 Public Law
Veterans Funeral Law
In January 2000, public law was implemented, providing for all veterans to receive, at a minimum, a funeral ceremony that includes:
- The folding of a United States flag
- Presentation of the flag to the veteran's family
- The playing of Taps