Honor guard team seeks volunteers Published June 12, 2009 By Mike Molina Editor DENVER -- The Air Reserve Personnel Center Honor Guard team often serves as the 'face' of the Air Force as it performs at ceremonies and services across the metro Denver area. "A lot of the public, this is all they know of the Air Force and of the military," said Tech. Sgt. Christine Ward, NCO in charge of the ARPC Honor Guard. The honor guard represents the Air Force and ARPC at official military and civilian functions. The team has performed during the opening ceremonies for the Colorado Rockies; at the annual Fourth of July festivities at Mount Rushmore; at promotion and retirement ceremonies; for various veterans groups, high school graduations, and other events at ARPC and throughout Denver. Because it is a voluntary 18-month commitment, the team can always use more members ready to serve, Sergeant Ward said. "There is a lot of responsibility, but there's also a lot of reward," she said. "Everyone is so grateful for what you do." Honor guard members must also be prepared to handle the demands of standing long periods and being in front of the public. "It's taught me a lot about being thorough and attention to detail," Sergeant Ward said. "You have to make sure you are physically and mentally prepared." While the job can be challenging, those who serve on the team often leave having gained a greater appreciation for the honor guard's role. "The impact you have on people's lives makes it worth it," Sergeant Ward said. For more information about volunteering to become a member of the ARPC Honor Guard, contact Sergeant Ward at Ext. 6351.