In 2004, a retired member of the Monterey County Office of the Sheriff died from natural causes. A request was made by the family to have a Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard at the funeral.

The Sheriff’s Office complied with the wishes of the family and sent personnel. Unfortunately, without training the deputies were unorganized and were unable to reflect the image of a sharp, polished honor guard unit.

It was then that Commanders Malcolm Gray and Alan Wheelus realized the need for a dedicated, trained group of Sheriff’s personnel who could honor our profession, our personnel, and law enforcement. We approached Sheriff Kanalakis regarding the establishment of an honor/color guard unit, and he heartily agreed that such a Sheriff’s Office unit should be formed.

With full support from the Sheriff, potential volunteers were approached. At first, Sheriff’s personnel were skeptical and only a few volunteered. However, as the unit began to form and serve at functions, the interest in this unit began to grow.

In order to distinguish our unit, uniforms and equipment were enhanced. The unit now dons campaign hats (Smokey the Bear type) instead of the traditional Sheriff’s Office cowboy hats. The campaign hats are adorned with gold acorns to match our shoulder cords. Patent leather shoes and gold ascots are worn. Through a donation from the U.S. Army, we received ten M-1 Garand rifles, modified for use with blank ammunition, to be used in various ceremonies. A bugle for the playing of Taps has also been obtained. These accents enhance the appearance of this special unit and add to the look of professionalism and dedication to our profession.

Today, the Sheriff’s Office has eleven deputies assigned to the unit with several waiting and wanting to join. The Sheriff’s Office Honor/Color Guard Unit has posted the colors at several major events and most recently performed honors for another fallen retiree. Annually in May, members attend the Peace Officer’s Memorial Remembrances held in Marina at St. Judes Church.

We have received many requests for our services. Anyone with questions or would like the presence of the Sheriff’s Office Color/ Honor Guard can call Commander Alan Wheelus at (831) 755-3761. The unit is available to local government agencies and associations for non-political events, upon approval. Unfortunately, not all requests can be granted since serving with this unit is a collateral assignment and members still perform their regular duties as deputies with the Sheriff’s Office.