Ceremonial Unit

The Cleveland Division of Police established the Ceremonial Unit effective December 1, 2000 with the issuance of General Police Order #40-00. Chief Martin L. Flask at that time directed that the Unit be established in order to represent the Division at police ceremonial functions with the highest level of professionalism, and that it be reflective of the police officers who serve the citizens of Cleveland.

The primary purpose of the Ceremonial Unit is to render appropriate courtesies at funeral ceremonies and memorial services, as well as represent the Division in other public and civic functions.  The Ceremonial Unit is comprised of two sections ­ the Honor Guard, and the Pipes & Drums of the Cleveland Police.

On September 21, 2000, Divisional Notice 00-363 was issued notifying members wishing to be considered for admission to the Unit to apply. Interest was high, and on January 3, 2001, DN 01-04 was issued, selecting the members of the Ceremonial Units 41 members of the Honor Guard and 30 members of the Pipes & Drums of the Cleveland Police. 

Additionally, there were two retired Cleveland Police officers and 22 police officers from other law enforcement agencies throughout northeast Ohio who were also members of the Pipes & Drums.

Creation of the Ceremonial Unit brought two existing organizations that were affiliated with the Division of Police into a formalized structure within the Division and under the command of the Chief of Police.  The Honor Guard was preceded by the Cleveland Police American Legion Post 438.

For nearly 75 years, this fine organization, comprised of U.S. military veterans, who were also members of the Division, volunteered to pay respects at the funerals of all active and retired police officers, as well as marching in parades and presenting the colors at ceremonial functions.