Honor Guard NCOIC recognized for dedication to team

  • Published
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  The Columbus Air Force Base Honor Guard hasn't always been the exceptional force it is today.

In just one year, the Honor Guard has gone through many changes after hiring its first NCO in charge, Tech. Sgt. Jeri Catus.

"Catus provided Columbus AFB and our Honor Guardsmen with over 1,000 hours of personal dedication (outside of duty hours), selfless service, and unwavering dedication in reviving the program," said Capt. Sharon Elliott, Columbus AFB Honor Guard Officer In Charge until October 2014. "She set the precedence for Columbus AFB Honor Guard Team operations, training, management, support, and maintenance which will be followed and expanded upon for years to come."

Catus served as the Honor Guard NCOIC from October 2013 until October 2014. During her time as NCOIC and program manager, she managed and led 344 Military Funeral Honors along with coordinating an additional nine Prisoner of War ceremonies, 27 graduations, 26 Retreat ceremonies, 13 Change of Commands and 30 local event ceremonies such as the Veterans Day parade in Downtown Columbus last year.

"Tech. Sgt.  Catus' leadership has been nothing less than exemplary," Elliott said. "From the instant she was hired for this overwhelming task, she delivered a refreshing, uplifting, and optimistic perspective to one of the most thankless jobs in the Air Force."

Taking over the position of Honor Guard NCOIC is Tech. Sgt. Charleston Calhoun, 14th Security Forces Squadron. Calhoun will be working with 2nd Lt. Emily Bucher, who will be attending training to become the new OIC. Together they will lead the base Honor Guard which has an Area of Responsibility spanning 40,000 square miles over 72 counties and two states.

"We would like to wish Catus our fondest farewell and best wishes as she leaves Columbus AFB for her new assignment in Honduras.  Thank you Catus, we salute you!" Elliott said.