Philomath High School graduate Charles Hewitt, who joined the U.S. Navy in October, was selected to serve as a member of the prestigious Navy Ceremonial Guard in Washington, D.C.
Airman Hewitt was a member of the Ceremonial Guard platoon that marched in the Memorial Day parade in Washington earlier this week.
Established in 1931, the Ceremonial Guard operates out of Washington, D.C. and represents the Navy in various public events, including presidential inaugurations and arrival ceremonies for foreign officials. The Navy Ceremonial Guard also conducts all services for Navy personnel and dependents buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
Selection for the Ceremonial Guard is a distinguished honor with only 200 members out of the 326,000 who serve in the Navy. Ceremonial Guard members are selected upon graduation from boot camp for a two-year assignment. Candidates must meet rigorous physical fitness and academic standards for consideration.
Hewitt, who graduated with Philomath High’s Class of 2018, is at least the fifth generation of his family to have served in the Armed Forces and the third generation with the U.S. Navy.