Cranford Police Department 2011 Annual Report - Cranford.com

Honor Guard
Cranford Police Department Honor Guard
The Cranford Police Department Honor Guard
was initiated in May of 2007.
An honor guard, by definition, is a group of
people serving as an escort or performing drill
exhibitions on ceremonial occasions.
(Wikipedia)
Usually comprised of volunteers who are
carefully screened for their ability and physical
dexterity, the department wanted members
who are highly motivated and maintain
exceptional standards of appearance and
conduct. As well, members needed to show
aptitude for ceremonial duty in order to be
considered. The primary purpose of the CPD
Honor Guard is to provide funeral honors for
fallen comrades.
However, an honor guard may also serve as the
"guardians of the colors". They present a
nation's colors for various ceremonies and
official state functions, both in and around
Union County. Additionally, they serve as
ambassadors to the public, presenting a positive
image of their service, and assisting with the
recruiting effort.
Sergeant Anthony J. Dobbins is the commander
of the Cranford Police Department Honor Guard.
Six other members are assigned to the unit. The
six other members are Detective Steven Toy,
Detective Ryan Greco, Officer Thomas Bell,
Officer William Pietrucha, Officer Daniel Norton,
and Officer John Ratigan.
The Honor Guard participated in the Memorial
Day Parade and presentation of the Ceremonial
Wreath. The Honor Guard also participated in
several community events.
The Cranford Police Department Honor Guard
continues participating in Funeral Services for
Retired Cranford Police Officers, officers killed in
the line of duty, and officers who passed away
while in active service to their respective Police
Departments around the State.
They will continue to train, representing the
Cranford Police Department with dignity and
pride.
Above, the Honor Guard at the department’s annual Memorial Day ceremony for Patrolman Robert Hand. Left to
right, Detective Ryan Greco, Patrolman Dan Norton, Patrolman Tom Bell, and Detective Steve Toy.
Cranford Police Department—2011 Annual Report 51