Sailors interested in being part of the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard can now apply according to a message released Feb. 5.

The U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard has been part of Navy history and American heritage since 1931 according to NAVADMIN 027/19.  It is the official ceremonial unit of the Navy and the most recognized, holding the nickname, “The face of the Navy.”  A screening is required for appointment.

Officers and enlisted Sailors E5-E7 who wish to apply to the ceremonial guard must meet the following criteria:

- No driving under the influence/driving while intoxicated convictions within last five years.

-No excessive debt.  The command financial specialist should evaluate member's debt to income ratio.

-No tattoos that show in a short sleeve uniform (can be waived).

-Height (waivers considered): Males:  minimum 6'0"; Females:  minimum 5'10.”

-Be able to participate in public ceremonies without glasses (contact lenses are acceptable).

-Be capable of strenuous marching, drilling, and prolonged standing.

-Have outstanding appearance and military bearing.

-Possess facial features free of acne, scars, and other unusual distinguishing features.

-Volunteers must have the following additional qualifications.

-No trait below 3.0 for the past three evaluation periods.

-Be high-caliber individuals ready to serve as sharp military role models for junior members.

-Overall physical fitness test category good or higher and within body composition assessment standards.

Interested enlisted candidates meeting the above requirements must submit a completed enlisted personnel action request (NAVPERS 1306/7) to their rating detailer via their commanding officer, requesting release to shore special programs for assignment to the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard.  Once released, the shore special programs detailer will release a screening message to the command with application requirements.  Once the application package is received and reviewed, a telephone interview will be arranged with the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard Command Master Chief and/or Commanding Officer.  Because of the challenging nature of duty onboard the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard, enlisted Sailors whose records reflect that they have succeeded in this assignment may be viewed positively on future enlisted advancement boards.

Interested officer candidates should contact their detailer and review ref (a) for specific requirements.  A telephone interview will be arranged with the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard Commanding Officer.

“We’re looking for highly motivated Sailors to lead junior Sailors,” said U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard command master chief, CMDCM Reginald McCallum. “For our mission, it has to be the best of the best that come here. You’re leading the best of the best, because the Sailors we bring here from Great Lakes are hot runners. We just want to make sure we have the best leadership for those Sailors and people who will help mold their careers.”

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