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Honor Guard praises sacrifice of soldiers
They carry the flag on the field at football games and other community events in praise of their country, but the biggest honor the men of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 1165 Honor Guard have is to recognize the men and women who have served in the armed forces at their burial.
Jerry Witt, owner of Cheney-Witt Chapel in Fort Scott, said the Honor Guard is an asset to the community and families of those buried in the area. They are always professional and always look sharp. Most importantly, they are always there.
"They always show up, they're always there, no matter the weather," Witt said.
VFW Post No. 1165 Assistant Commander Walter Littleton said there are currently about 20 volunteers who participate in the Honor Guard. Burial services typically need 13 and presentation of the colors at community events requires only four, he said. Because the group is made up of volunteers, Littleton said the bond they have with each other is strong.
"Everybody gets along well. It's a volunteer group, so nobody has to be there," he said.
The one thing that keeps Honor Guard members coming back -- sometimes for several burials each week -- is the thought of providing the service for deceased veterans and their families. While they post the colors, fire the honor volley and present the folded American flag to the family, they are honoring soldiers without cost or complaint.
"It's something we all feel is a service that should be provided to all veterans," Littleton said. "It's an honor and a privilege for us to do it. ... I don't know how to describe it; it just gives all of us a good feeling to be able to provide the service."
While most Honor Guard participants are Korean and Vietnam war veterans, it is estimated the VFW's Honor Guard began sometime around World War II. In fact, Littleton said there are several WW II veterans in the community who are no longer able to participate. However, one, Morris Nelson, took part until he passed away in January at the age of 90.
Many Honor Guard members were born and raised in Bourbon County, and oftentimes, the burial services they perform are for family and friends.
Littleton said last month the Honor Guard performed at the service for the father-in-law of one of their fellow members.
The Honor Guard was also present at Nelson's burial. Littleton said when he calls to get volunteers the first question is always who passed away. Regardless of the answer, the Honor Guard does its best.
"We try to provide the same service for everybody," he said.
The Honor Guard does not limit itself to services at Fort Scott National Cemetery. Littleton said they have been all over the county and even done services in Hepler and Bronaugh, Mo.
The Honor Guard goes beyond burial services, as well. They are frequent fixtures around the community for flag presentations and patriotic events. Witt said whenever there is a patriotic-themed event, the Honor Guard is more than happy to help.
Friday, the Honor Guard will participate in the annual Veterans Day Memorial Service at Fort Scott National Cemetery, providing presentation of the colors and firing an honor volley. The service begins at 11 a.m.