DCHS Alumni Becomes Member of Elite Navy Honor Guard
Posted on 11/21/2022
Airman Durand Byssainthe, a 2020 Douglas County High School graduate, joined the Navy six months ago. Today, Byssainthe serves as a U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guardsman.
Byssainthe recently completed an intensive 10-week training program to become a member of the elite U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard. Established in 1931, the Navy Ceremonial Guard is the official honor guard of the Navy.
Based at Naval District Washington Anacostia Annex in Washington, D.C., members participate in some of the most prestigious ceremonies, including Presidential inaugurations and arrival ceremonies for foreign officials.
“I joined the Navy to implement self-discipline in my life, make meaningful connections and travel the world,” said Byssainthe.
Ceremonial Guard members are hand-selected while they’re attending boot camp at Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Illinois. They are skilled experts in the art of close order drill, coordination and timing.
"I am proud to have made it through boot camp and Alpha Company training," said Byssainthe. "I'm also proud to have the opportunity and honor of joining the elite ranks of the Ceremonial Guard."