Des Moines Fire Department Honor Guard

In November 1998 the desire for a new ceremonial arm of the fire department was recognized which lead to the creation of the Des Moines Fire Department Honor Guard.  Twelve individuals answered the call. Original members still involved are; Doug Burke, Mickey McGilvra, Christine Rankin, Matt Porter, Joe Guidicessi, John TeKippe, Ed Haase, Londo Vivone III, Ron Eginoire, Dennis Jones and Mike Herrera.  Additionally, members were added in 2003, Steve Beckett, Dana Knowler, Josh Wiebel, Jamie Sauter, Jim Mitchell, Jeff Downing and Jerimie Eginoire joining in 2009.

Since the time of formation the goal of the Honor Guard has been to serve the fire department and community as a visual reminder of the service and traditions of the fire service.  To advocate respectful tribute and remember with honor and distinction past and present fire fighters for their dedication and service to the citizens of Des Moines.

Functionally, the Honor Guard has become a valuable public relations tool for the Des Moines Fire Department and has represented the City of Des Moines throughout the country including 9/11 FDNY memorial in New York, IAFF Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial Observance in Colorado Springs and all across Iowa including Standing Tall Remembrance at Principal Park in Des Moines and Iowa Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial in Coralville. 

The Des Moines Honor Guard is dedicated to providing comfort, dignity and respect to families of lost personnel with pride and professionalism.

For further information or to contact the Honor Guard send a message to Christine Rankin at: ckrankin@dmgov.org

ckrankin@dmgov.org