The Spokane Police Department Honor Guard is a detail designed to promote the police department to the public; primarily during ceremonial events. These events include honoring fallen officers and their families. The Honor Guard pays tribute the service and sacrifice of the fallen officer as well as their family. Other details include presenting the colors at official events such as; athletic events, city council meetings, awards ceremonies and retired Spokane Police Department officer’s funerals. The Honor Guard performs special details where a certain protocol exists and where the prestige of Department is on display. This is accomplished through the unit’s ability to represent the department in a coordinated, sharply dressed and disciplined manner.

 

The SPD Honor Guard was formed just after the death of Detective Brian Orchard (1983). The unit was formed because of the response the department received from other law enforcement agencies around the state and Canada. Originally, the unit wore class dress uniforms and did not carry a firearm. In 1998, there was a joint effort by the Chaplain’s Office and the Department to purchase new uniforms, which allowed the members to wear a ceremonial duty belt and firearm. This is the present day uniform.

 

The Honor Guard members are chosen from volunteering officers based on their ability to march, their military bearing and their professional appearance.