HONOR GUARD

The mission of the Skokie Fire Local 3033 Honor Guard is to serve as representatives of both the Fire Department and Union Local 3033 at both ceremonial occasions and funeral details.  The Honor Guard is used to project a positive image of both the Department and the Union, by working as a well trained professional team at local and national events.  The Honor Guard is dedicated to honoring fallen firefighters, their families, and Department members, both present and past.

HISTORY

In 2006 Firefighters Tom Doran and Jeff Rudolph were inducted into the Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois Honor Guard.  While both members served as representatives of the Skokie Union Local 3033, both felt that the whole Department should be represented.  In the spring of 2008 firefighters Doran and Rudolph approached Chief Ralph Czerwinski with a recommendation to form a Department Honor Guard.  It was approved immediately, and would be funded by both the Fire Department and the Local.  On May 15, 2008 the Skokie Fire Local 3033 Honor Guard was established.  This unit would be utilized to serve as Village representatives on behalf of the Department and Union.

The Honor Guard participates in several types of events.  The units Color Guard has posted colors at Department functions including swearing in of new members, promotional ceremonies, 9/11 memorials and parades.  The Honor Guard plans, organizes and takes part in funeral and memorial service for Department members and retirees.

REQUIREMENTS

The Union currently has 3 members in the AFFI Honor Guard; they are Firefighter J. Rudolph, Firefighter T. Doran and Firefighter. J Pryst.  In February of 2009 Firefighter T. Doran was inducted into the AFFI District 8 Pipes and Drums unit as a bagpiper.  Members of the AFFI Honor Guard must attend at least 2 training sessions a year to maintain membership.  An annual convection is held in the winter to induct new members, refresh skills, and pass on new ideas.

The Skokie Fire Local 3033 Honor Guard currently has a roster of 17 individuals.  Members volunteer to participate in both training and events.  These members must attend a minimum of 3 training sessions a year.

ROSTER

Commanders

Jeff Rudolph

Tom Doran

Members

Bill Gendel

Lt. Kathy FUrgala

Chris Kenneally

Steve Kosmella

Gabe Millard

Dave Nellessen

Craig Nordin

Dave Norris

Joe Pryst

Lt. Leo Riley

Dennis Selzer

Chris Vrshek

Kendall Wilson

Joe Winkelman

Hernando Zavala