Code of Conduct
Vision and Mission Statements
Mission
It is the mission of the Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guard to elevate the image and public awareness of the Emergency Medical Service and heighten staff and civic pride in the professionalism of the service. To professionally represent Manitoba’s Paramedics at any Canadian Line of Duty Death (LODD) event/memorial. To represent Manitoba’s Paramedics at formal events/celebrations and the management of such activities, whether social, recreational, or benevolent, as the MPHG may from time to time decide.
Vision Statement
It is the vision of the Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guard to elevate the status of Manitoba Emergency Medical Service and the EMS community at large by the provision of a strong public image in Ceremonial events. This will be accomplished by presenting a professional, recognizable uniform presence accompanied by proficient, unified drill performance with an approachable demeanor following the event. To provide assistance to Manitoba families and Emergency Medical Service Agencies impacted by a Paramedic LODD. Assistance to be comprised of, but not limited to, liaison to National Organizations, other Paramedic Honour Guards, and any other groups involved in a Paramedic LODD memorial. To promote improvement in public perception of Paramedics through the exchange of ideas. The establishment and maintenance of communication with the employer and other groups.
Requirements for Joining the Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guard
During the development of the Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guard a standard has been established and adopted by its Officers. These standards are essential in maintaining the cohesion of the Honour Guard and the professionalism of its performance and expectations. Therefore a process has been developed for the addition of new members to the Honour Guard.
All applicants to the Honour Guard must meet the following as minimum requirements;
- Member in good standing with Manitoba Emergency Medical Services
- Member in good standing with the Paramedic Association of Manitoba
- Demonstration of commitment to the service and the EMS community at large
- Demonstration of the teamwork ethic
- Demonstration of commitment to the volunteerism principle
- A minimum commitment of three (3) years to the Honour Guard
- Reviewed, understood, and agreed to abide by the Code of Conduct
- Two hundred and fifty dollar ( $250.) registration fee
Interested individuals will apply in writing to the Commander of the Guard, including their reason(s) for committing to the Honour Guard, drill practice and a final interview. Applicants will be requested to voluntarily accept the conditions and performance expectations adopted by the Honour Guard, including the discipline associated with the Honour Guard. Location within Manitoba EMS may enter as factor in determining acceptance, as requirements for maintaining drill practice the Honour Guard is necessary to ensure adequate members are available for Events. The existing members of the Honour Guard could be consulted as to the acceptability of the applicant in order to maintain Honour Guard cohesion. The final decision on the applicant’s success rests with the Executive Committee of the MPHG. New recruits into the Honour Guard will begin the initial training process with the understanding that they will not receive a Class-A uniform nor be assigned to Events until such time as they have demonstrated adequate dedication to the Honour Guard and attendance at drill practices.
Initial Training Program and Orientation of New Guard Recruits
Each new guard recruit will receive a copy of the Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guard Code of Conduct Manual. This manual is to be retained for ease of reference by the member for the duration of their association with the Honour Guard.
The initial orientation process will include a review of the Code of Conduct Manual. Each guard recruit will be requested to voluntarily accept the conditions and performance
expectations adopted by the Honour Guard, including the discipline associated with the Honour Guard. This is accomplished by the signing of a statement of understanding and commitment.
Initial drill training typically involves four (4) full days broken into a schedule as deemed appropriate by the Drill Sergeant of the Guard. All new recruits are required to attend the entirety of this initial training regardless of prior military drill experience. During this time the basis for marching and drill performance is established and imprinted to the point of retaining the movements of command as muscle memory. Repetition and correction of form are used extensively to master the drill movements first as an individual, and then applied so all members perform the drill in unison. This initial training process can be considered laborious however it is implemented so as to provide a positive experience for the new recruit. At no time will new recruits be subjected to unusual or impractical discipline or commands. The result of this unique training schedule is and experience that builds the new recruits as a team and readies them for implementation of drill with the rest of the Honour Guard, the experience will not likely be forgotten.
New recruits are then invited to begin regular scheduled drill practice with the rest of the Honour Guard. Once the new member has established that they possess a suitable level of commitment and their performance is deemed suitable for the expectations of the Honour Guard, they will receive a Class-A dress uniform and be invited to participate in Honour Guard events as an Guard of the Manitoba Honour Guard.
Drill
Drill is defined for our purposes as; Marching and performing in unison under the direction of a single or multiple Unit Commander to achieve a desired goal.
Historically drill was first conceived and utilized in a military capacity by the Sparta warriors for the purpose of moving troops in a battlefield setting. There are those that contend the origin but this is the most commonly held principle.
The rationale for training troops in the execution of drill was to move the troops onto the battlefield in an orderly fashion, and to move them around efficiently while the battle was ongoing. This methodology allowed for a streamlined command structure, thereby allowing better communications of objectives t the combatants. Commands were designed to be short and specific t avoid confusion from the troops and their respective commanders, and common enough that should the commander fall during battle another member could assume the commanders role. This led to the system of platoons and ranking that still exists in modern day militaries. Drill movements also allowed the commander to catch the developments on the battlefield and quickly move troops into areas that required bolstering. This also gave the troops the security of knowing that assistance was never far behind.
It is also said that the most important aspect of drill in the battlefield environment was more of psychological warfare. It was shown that by presenting a well organized force to the opposition it signified that this was a professional military, one that trained extensively together and had the commitment of significant backing and support. This would weigh heavily on the minds of the
opponent and was often enough to encourage them to leave the battlefield. Virtually all military forces in one form or another adopted the drill process to aid them on the battlefield.
The advent of gunpowder would ultimately change most battlefield tactics however drill remains a constant in most present day military forces, although now it is largely ceremonial in its application. It is also used as a training tool to encourage and motivate individuals to function as a team.
The Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guard uses Standard Commonwealth Drill as its mainstay for ceremonial presentations. It has been adopted by the Canadian Military and conforms to most, if not all, of their requirements. By adopting this drill methodology it gives a readily available resource in the performance of our Events. The teaching system used is based on the same doctrine and only significant difference will be the omission of the “Rifle Drill” components. Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guards will receive training to obtain and include items of particular significance.
The use of this drill is common to most Ceremonial Units and therefore allows the Honour Guard to interact quickly and efficiently with these associated members.
The drill system is used by the Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guard to show the professionalism of the service that we represent. When well executed it casts an excellent light on those whom we represent. It is our obligation to them to ensure we perform to the absolute best of our abilities at all events.
Drill Practices
Drill is a complex series of movements preformed on unison and in order to be proficient in its execution the Honour Guard must be diligent in preparation. This ensures the professional presentation of the Guard in both Events that have advanced preparation and those that do not.
This is done through the use of frequent drill practices.
Scheduling:
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Practices are held one evening every third week altering days to help accommodate guard work schedules commencing in January to June 30th and September to December inclusive. This results in ten scheduled drill practices per year.
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Event schedules will be provided to each Guard outlining the dates of all practices sessions, annual Events, and meetings as soon as they are available.
- Additional practice sessions will be arranged in preparation for major events in order to ensure specific drill requirements are met.
- If the scheduled Drill Sergeant is unable to attend the drill practice, the session shall commence at the scheduled time with the appropriate Officer assuming command.
Content:
Regular scheduled drill practice sessions follow this general format.
1. Arrival time 09:00 hours
2. Assembly and inspection at 09:15 hours sharp
3. Core practice material and instruction
4. Lunch break
5. Briefing session
6. Assume drill Practice time 13:00 hours
7. Dismissal at a time deemed by Drill Sergeant
Detail practice sessions will involve:
1. Dress set by the Executive Officer
2. Location set by the Executive Officer
3. Times set by the Executive Officer
4. Guards as selected for the Event
5. Material specific to the Event.
It is incumbent on the Drill Sargeant /Commander leading the practice to advise the Guards prior to the session of uniform requirements and items to be practiced. The Drill Sargeant /Commander must ensure adequate breaks and that the rules of decorum are followed and enforced. The Drill Sargeant / Commander must also ensure feedback and corrective measures are given immediately during the session. It is also incumbent on the Drill Sargeant /Commander to ensure all facets of the practice objectives are met and to adjust the schedules to ensure that all members are capable of completing the assignments.
It is incumbent on the members of the Guard to arrive on time and in appropriate uniform that is properly presentable and to participate in the practice as requested. While on the parade square the members of the Guard must follow appropriate decorum.
Attendance Policy
The Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guard adopts the following policy regarding attendance at drill practices and Events.
1. All members are expected to attend scheduled practices when not on duty. If a member fails to attend a minimum of one (1) drill practice out of two, without prior notification of their Senior Officer, the member shall be considered to be displaying an inadequate level of commitment. The member shall be counseled up to and including dismissal from the Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guard.
2. All members are expected to attend the Events they sign up for. If a member agrees to attend a Event and then is absent without notice, the member shall be considered to be displaying an inadequate level of commitment. The member shall be counseled up to and including dismissal from the Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guard.
3. Missing scheduled practices and Events without prior notice is considered a dishonour to the Unit and fellow members that are being represented.
The above is to be considered the minimum level of activity and consideration to remain “active” as an Honour Guard in the Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guard. Selection for Event participation is based on an Honour Guards activity and attendance in both practices and prior Events.
Officership
The members of the Honour Guard must understand that they are entrusted with representing all members of the Manitoba Emergency Medical Services, and at all times conduct themselves in a manner worthy of respect and their trust. This obligation is not to be taken lightly and is given freely without expectation of compensation.
The Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guards are responsible for the following:
- Knowledge and understanding of Drill
- Knowledge and understanding of Protocol
- Conduct becoming of an Honour Guard
- Uniform preparation and care
- Acceptance of orders given by Superior Officers
- Respectful of the other Honour Guards of the Unit
- Unity and harmony of the Guard
- Fundraising
The rewards of being an Honour Guard are in the work itself. The pride of being instrumental in elevation the stature of Manitoba EMS and the prehospital field will be its own reward within the EMS community. All members will share equally in the accolades received by the Unit and the honours bestowed upon it.
Members of the Honour Guard will have the opportunity to participate in planning and/or lead special projects related to the both the development of the Honour Guard and the formal presentation of Manitoba EMS. Examples of these projects include Annual Golf Tournament planning, fundraising, Manitoba special event planning.
Command
The leadership roles within the Honour Guard are designated as “Commander” roles. These roles are designated to those members that demonstrate themselves to have the qualities that are desirous in a Commander, as well as the respect of the members of the Unit. The successes of the Unit are directly influenced by the confidence and trust the members place with their Commanders.
The principle leadership methodology that has been adopted by the Unit is one of “Leadership by example”. The phrasing “Never ask anyone to perform that which you would not readily complete yourself” summates this. With this principle in mind it is necessary for the Unit Commanders to demonstrate their willingness to follow this by participating in regular practice activities whenever possible. Therefore; it can be stated that the requirement of the Unit Commanders in twice the work of any of its members.
The next foundation of leadership within the Unit is that of putting the Unit before themselves. This involves the ability to share the achievements and successes of the Unit with all of the members, without accepting the credit personally. Remember; the Unit only succeeds when all of its members are working together as a team. This also involves accepting all of the negative occurrences personally, as the Unit does not fail only when the Commander has failed to ensure the Unit can perform as a team. The negatives than need to be processed into a form that can be taken back to the Unit and correction given to the entire Unit in a constructive manner. Avoiding “singling” out a member will help to develop the team, which is not to discount that special attention may be required to help an individual perform at the Unit expectation.
There are certain qualities and cornerstones of good leadership. These are the inherent traits of the member and can be fostered and cultured within the membership. The future Commanders of the Honour Guard will come from with the Unit and it is the best interest of the Honour Guard to ensure its future success by promoting these traits in its members. These traits include:
- Honesty Strong Character
- Integrity Self Motivation
- Loyalty Self Reliance
- Discipline Sound Judgment
- Morality Humility
- Positive Attitude Positive Energy
- Pride Sense of Humour
The commitment of the Honour Guard is to build strong leader of its members and it can only enhance its overall success. Fostering this in the members will only improve each of them and will carry over into whatever the members strive to achieve, ensuring their personal success. This presents a classic “win-win” position and can only be beneficial to all parties.
Command Structure Terms of Reference and Areas of Responsibility
1 I/C Commander of the Guard
2 I/C Lieutenant of the Guard
Drill Sergeant
Treasurer
Secretary
Paramedic Association of Manitoba representative
Honour Guards
Executive Officers; Includes 1 I/C, 2 I/C
Officers Include, Secretary, Treasurer and Paramedic Association of Mb representative
Collectively responsible for:
- Communication
- Training goals and implementation
- Event planning and coordination
- Financial and logistical planning
- Project development
Areas of Responsibility
1 I/C Commander of the Guard:
- Oversees all aspects of operations by delegating duties as required
- Provides leadership and advancement of knowledge for all members in the areas of protocol, and etiquette pertinent to the duties of the Unit
- Shall preside at all Executive Board and General Meetings. The Commander shall be responsible for the efficient administration of the MPHG’s business.
- If otherwise committed to other business, may appoint the Lieutenant Commander to preside an Executive Board or General Meeting.
- Shall appoint a Drill Sergeant to provide leadership, training, and act as a resource for the MPHG.
- May create committees for different MPHG activities, as determined by the Executive Board.
- Shall be an ex-officio member of all committees.
- Director of Communications
2 I/C Lieutenant Commander:
- Shall assist the Commander at all times in preserving order at meetings. In the absence or incapacity of the Commander, he/she shall take over his duties temporarily.
- In the event of death, removal, or resignation of the Commander, the Lieutenant Commander shall become the Commander to temporarily fill the vacancy until an election can be held.
- Shall maintain order of the MPHG including ensuring participation of all MPHG members in MPHG activities.
Secretary
- Shall keep a record of all meetings of the MPHG
- Shall be responsible for all correspondence of the MPHG.
- Shall assist the Treasurer in recording the membership of the MPHG.
- Shall make available minutes of the previous meeting at every meeting.
Treasurer
- Shall be responsible for arranging the collection and recording of all funds the MPHG.
- Shall record all transactions involving funds of the MPHG and shall be responsible for the safe keeping of all monies of the MPHG
- Shall deposit all monies of the MPHG in a chartered bank, credit union, or similar financial institution
- Shall make a detailed financial report to the Annual General Meeting
- Shall make a financial report to meetings of the Executive
- Shall be responsible for paying any monies owed by the MPHG.
Paramedic Association of Manitoba Representative;
- Shall be appointed by the Paramedic Association of Manitoba Executive Board for a length of time determined by the PAM Executive Board
- Shall provide Executive Board a direct liaison to the PAM Executive Board..
- Shall be responsible for investigation of any complaint toward the MPHG Executive Board or its policies. All investigations shall be presented to both the MPHG and PAM Executive Boards with any conclusions / recommendations.
Drill Sergeant;
- Provides training, leadership and advancement of knowledge for all members in the areas of drill.
- Shares drill practice coordination and instruction with other Officers
- Responsible for the ready status of Officers and guards for the purpose of LODD and special Events
Executive Officers of the Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guard are awarded a gold colour shoulder braid lanyard to distinguish their position. When coordinating a detail in Guard of Honour uniform the gold lanyard will be worn to identify that they are in charge of the detail. When not personally coordinating a detail, but attending under the direction of another Executive Officer, the royal blue shoulder braid lanyard will be worn to promote uniformity.
Commitment
The commitment of the Honour Guard is paramount to the success of the Unit. This requires a commitment by both the guard members and there officers. With both entities being equally accountable to each other, the strength of the guard is formed. With a Unit of this nature the demands placed on its members can be high, but the
rewards can be even higher. Each member’s contribution will lead to the success of the Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guard and greatly enhance the image of the service and the EMS community. The following is the commitment made by the Guard and its members:
The Officers will be committed to the Honour Guard by:
• Accepting the doctrine of the Members
• Attending practices
• Accepting the responsibilities of the details presented
• Honouring the Guard, its Code of Conduct, and its members
• Resolving differences within the Guard itself
• Keeping business within the Guard itself
• Promoting professional conduct through all facets of daily activities
• Promoting the Code of the Guard
• Ensuring the proper image and integrity of the Guard is maintained
• Ensuring the proper image of its members is maintained at all times
The Honour Guard will be committed to its Officers by:
• Making available the tools and training to help them succeed
• Being available to the members for guidance or other needs
• Positive reinforcement of Guard/individual achievements
• Leadership by example
• Facilitating conflict resolution
• Promotion of the Guard and its members within the EMS community
• Facilitation of education and improvement of Guard Officers
• Ensuring the Guard maintains its integrity
• Ensuring the Guard is put before any one individual or member
Discipline
The object of discipline is to ensure the prompt and willing adherence to an order given by a superior. It is designed to produce order and establish cohesion in individuals so they can achieve success as a single unit, in a single purpose. When properly administered discipline results in an intelligent desire to carry out the direction given by the superior authority.
Respectful obedience to a given order is the basis for sound discipline. It must be given freely to a superior who has earned the respect and trust of those being led. It is therefore the responsibility of the superior authority to ensure that they never promote or ask of others anything that would violate that respect and trust.
Discipline is the cornerstone of the performance of an effective Unit. Without it the Guard would fail to meet its objective. It is the responsibility of all members of the Guard to value discipline and maintain it during the course of executing the objective.
Discipline should never come from a fear or dread of punishment. It is from within an individual that is committed to the success of the Guard. It is necessary to place the needs
of the Guard above the needs of oneself.
Advice and correction should first be given to the entire Guard collectively without singling out any one individual. Allow the Guard to correct itself through its own initiatives. It is detrimental to the morale of the Guard if they are not allowed to correct themselves prior to outside influences. If an individual is having a consistent problem and is not responding to the Guard initiatives it may become necessary to counsel and provide further individual instruction. Once the problem has been rectified the member will then be returned to the Guard.
It is important to note that advice and correction should not be construed as a personal insult, but that of constructive criticism designed to enhance the performance of the Guard. An individual member’s success is directly involved in the success of the Guard. It is therefore in the best interest of the Guard that all of its members operate at maximum effectiveness.
In the event a breach of discipline occurs it will be dealt with following the Chain of Command that exists within the Honour Guard. Individuals will be corrected by an Executive Officer. At this level the 1 I/C or 2 I/C will be responsible for furthering actions that will facilitate the correction of the breach, or applying the discipline that is required for said breach. It is ultimately the responsibility of the Commander of the Guard to ensure that all discipline actions are appropriate to the breach and that each member has the appropriate time and venue to air their concerns concerning the breach and its validity.
Conduct
The Code of the Honour Guard is “Utilitas, Honos, Ossicium” (Duty, Honour, Sacrifice) and this must be consciously upheld by all members at all times. There is an expectation that all Honour Guards will conduct themselves with the highest of personal regard, therefore never dishonouring the Honour Guard and fellow Members, and Manitoba EMS and its members. The essence of the Guard is leadership within our service, the EMS community, and the community at large. We are here to represent all members of Manitoba EMS and with that we must conduct ourselves in the very highest of deportment at all times. The members of Manitoba EMS have entrusted us with this responsibility and to perform at a lesser standard dishonours that trust.
Conduct is broken down into various aspects and layered on top of each other to form the basis of the highest conduct for which the members will be responsible.
1. General Conduct
This is how a member conducts themselves on a daily basis and is the foundation of exemplary conduct. It includes but is not limited to:
• Respect – of others values, opinions, beliefs, religions, and cultures
• Honesty
• Integrity
• Ethics
• Discipline
• Attitude
2. Conduct On-Duty
This is how a member conducts themselves while functioning in the daily performance of their duties within Manitoba EMS. This is how a member gains the respect of their co-workers. It includes but is not limited to:
• All of the above, and:
• Pride in the Manitoba EMS duty uniform and EMS Dress Uniform
• Leadership within the service and the community
• Maintenance of good standing with the Paramedic Association of Manitoba
• Professionalism in all aspects of practice
• Promotion of education and improvement of Guard Officers and all EMS members
3. Conduct at Guard Practice
This is the cornerstone of establishing the discipline required to perform well as a unit. It is what will build and maintain the teamwork necessary to performing the required drill with competency. It includes but is not limited to:
• All of the above, and:
• Attendance at all practices, unless working or upon prior notification of absence
• Practice uniform will be properly prepared and complete
• Punctual arrival
• Utilizing proper addressing of Officers and Commander throughout
• Accept discipline enforced to promote performance conduct and enhance presentation
• Obey the words of command and the Commander
• Assist new members with dress and drill
• Encourage the building of the Guard through a variety of activities
4. Conduct at Official Functions
This is how a member conducts themselves while attending a function that may or may not involve the wearing of the Honour Guard uniform, or EMS dress uniform but is still in the function of representing Manitoba EMS and its membership. It includes but is not limited to:
• All of the above, and:
• Conducing themselves as gentlemen/ladies
• Addressing others with respect
• Positive representation of the service and its members
• Deportment that presents a very positive image
• Use of appropriate manners and etiquette
• Promotion of the profession as well as the service
• Avoidance of negative internal political issues
• Avoidance of excessive alcohol consumption
5. Conduct at Details in Honour Guard Uniform
This is how an Honour Guard conducts themselves while performing at or attending a designated function/detail, and is in full ‘Class A’ dress uniform. This is the period when the Honour Guard is at its highest profile and therefore under the most scrutiny. The actions of its Guards must be beyond reproach and must exhibit exemplary conduct. At this level the Guards are representing Manitoba EMS, its members, and the EMS community in general. They are no longer representing themselves. It includes but is not limited to:
• All of the above, and:
• Conduct appropriate to the uniform
• Highest manners
• Highest discipline
• Obeys Commander implicitly
• Follow orders to the letter
• Clearance of all activities through the Officer coordinating the detail
• Absolute continuity of the Guard during drill performance
• Uniform in order to perfection
• Parade boots at high shine
• Absolutely no use of profanity
• Absolutely no smoking in public view
• Minimal alcohol consumption using appropriate vessels
Grooming
As a member of the Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guard there are expectations for each member’s personal appearance. Adherence to these standards is mandatory and ensures a professional, cohesive Guard presentation. The standard has been established by utilizing past military practice and has been upheld as a reasonable expectation by the members of the Guard. These standards are specific only to those events that require the presentation of the ‘Class A’ dress uniform or events when formed in rank.
The requirements are as follows:
1. Hair to be clean and neat, and:
a. As a male Guard the length will not exceed the collar and be over the ears.
b. As a female Guard be of appropriate length to be off the collar, in a bun, or be worn up under the uniform cap. Keep in mind that caps are on/off frequently during Details.
2. Face to be clean shaven, and:
a. As a male Guard moustaches are allowed but must be neatly maintained and not exceed the corners of the mouth.
b. As a female Guard minimal makeup in natural tones is to be applied in such a fashion to compliment the uniform.
Uniforms must be prepared in the highest order and worn appropriately so as to augment the presentation of uniformity, therefore:
1. All facial jewelry is to be removed when in guard uniform. This is to be interpreted as no jewelry visible above the collar, including but not limited to the ears, lips/mouth, tongue, nose, eyebrows, etc.
2. All watches, bracelets and other wristbands shall be removed when in guard uniform.
3. External tunic pockets shall be kept free of bulky items (i.e. wallets, cell phone, keys, smoking materials, etc.)
Detail Functions
The Guard of Honour will be requested to perform at a wide variety of functions. These functions are known as “Details”. The requests are made from parties organizing the event and are made by communication through the 1 I/C and 2 I/C. It is the responsibility of the designated Executive Officer to assign the appropriate number of personnel to the Detail.
Details fall into several categories. They include but are not limited to:
1. Membership Details:
- Weddings
- Funerals
- Formal Balls and functions
- Public relations events
2. Departmental Details:
- EMS Station opening ceremonies
- EMS Week Activities
- Investitures
- Recruiting and orientation
- Allied health care agency events
- Public relations and other special events
3. Civic Details:
- Requests from the Mayor’s Office
- Interdepartmental joint Guard events (Police Service, Fire Rescue)
- Public relations events
- Union Details
- Cooperative Union Events
4. Provincial Details:
- Lt. Governor of Manitoba events
- Manitoba Health Events
- Minister of Health Events
- Paramedic Association of Manitoba Events
- Allied Emergency Service events (specifically funerals)
- Public relations events
5. Federal Details:
- Governor General of Canada events
- Prime Minister of Canada events
- Dignitary functions
6. International Events:
- Visiting world leader events
- International sporting events
The Guard will be willing to perform in each of these categories and items in this list. As the history of the Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guard unfolds there will be many more additions to the repertoire of Details.
*Selection of Guards for Detail participation will be based on the member’s attendance and participation in practices and prior Details. Time constraints prior to the Detail often may affect selection for assignment. Selection for participation will be at the discretion of the Executive Officers in charge of the Detail.
Dress
As a member of the Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guard you will be required to attend a variety of different events. These events have different uniform or dress requirements associated with them. To assist in the selection of appropriate attire the following list has been developed so that common parameters are used in defining those requirements. Each requirement level has been assigned a “class” for further definition. Noteworthy is that each class also includes preparation requirements that are associated with each.
‘Class A’ (Full Honour Guard Dress Tunic)
This is the ceremonial presentation uniform created and adopted to represent the Guards of the Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guard. This uniform is to be worn at functions as deemed appropriate by the Guard Commander. This uniform consists of the midnight blue high collar/patrol dress tunic, steel blue pants with royal blue dress stripe, steel blue
cap, Black/royal blue belt, parade boots, royal blue shoulder braid, white gloves, and all insignia in gold.
*Please note that all components of this uniform are mandatory without exception.*
Specific requirements:
• Ensure uniform is complete, cleaned, and prepared to the highest order
• Cap with member at all times
• Parade boots polished to high shine
• All gold insignia polished. Insignia includes gold cap badge and belt badge, gold “Paramedic” epaulette pin, gold Manitoba MPHG name tag with full name, gold star of life collar insignia.
• Executive Officers will require variations of shoulder braid colour to distinguish them as such
• Additions may be made at the discretion of the Guard Commander depending on the nature of the detail (i.e. Memorial ribbons or Remembrance Day Poppies at the appropriate calendar time)
• Decorations (insignia of medals, etc.) will be court-mounted and worn in accordance with the directives of the Chancellery of Honours
‘Class B’ (Mess Dress) *Under Development*
This uniform is specific to those formal functions related to evening activities (i.e. dinners, balls, galas, receptions, etc.) not specified by the Commander as ‘Class A’ events. This uniform consists of the midnight blue single breasted coat, mid night blue pants with royal blue pin stripe, white shirt and navy blue neck tie, black shoes, and all insignia in gold.
Specific requirements:
• Ensure uniform is complete, cleaned, and prepared to the highest order
• Uniform cap is a component of this uniform
• Decorations required in miniature will be court-mounted and worn in accordance with the directives of the Chancellery of Honours
‘Class C’ (Departmental EMS Branch Dress Uniform)
This is the departmental uniform adopted by the Regional Health Authority in Manitoba for its general membership. This uniform is worn at events that do not require the pageantry of the Honour Guard. It consists of a dark navy blue dress uniform issued by the respective health authority.
Specific requirements
• Ensure uniform is complete, cleaned, and prepared to the highest order
• Shoes polished to high shine
• All insignia polished
• Others per department policy
• Guard members who are classified as EMS practioners in Manitoba will wear the uniform required by there respective Manitoba EMS employers policy when attending events in this uniform class
Guard Drill Practice Attire
This uniform is worn at practice sessions of the Guard. It consists of standard issue duty uniform pants, an appropriately marked navy blue practice t-shirt, and parade boots or cleaned/blackened duty boots.. The appropriate dress for the training session will be assigned with ample time for compliance. If no specification is made prior to the session the practice uniform will default to the full items listed above.
Specific requirements:
• Ensure uniform is complete, cleaned, and prepared
• Boots are polished
• Specific uniform items may be added to practices preparing for specific details (i.e. gloves, cap etc.) at the discretion of the Drill Sergeant/ Officer in charge of that detail
Appropriate Attire *Under Development*
This consists of the clothing worn by members of the Paramedic Honour Guard when not actively performing but still in attendance at a function where they are representing the Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guard. This is to be appropriate to the event attended and at the discretion of the attending Executive Officer. It will be assigned prior to the event with sufficient time for suitable preparations and to ensure that members incur no undue hardship. An example of attire in this class includes a black golf shirt with Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guard embroidered crest and khaki pants.
Compliments
Saluting
Salute: Derived from Latin, Salus – health, and Salvus – safe.
1 a: to address with expressions of kind wishes, courtesy, or honour. b: to give a sign of respect, courtesy, or goodwill to greet.
2 a: to honour (as person, nation, or event) by conventional military or naval ceremony. b: to show recognition to a superior by assuming a prescribed position. c: to express commendation of.
*Source: Webster’s Dictionary, 10th Edition.
There are many different historical references to the origin of the salute. It is most commonly held that the salute was brought about from a greeting that could be given from a fair distance away that was given to an opponent or friend. The greeting was given with the right hand held in visual sight showing that it contained no weapon therefore showing the opponent or friend that it was safe to approach. It also allowed the shield to be maintained in a defensive position so they were not vulnerable to attack.
Historical reference holds that the modern salute has its origins in medieval times. In the day of the Chivalric Code of Honour, as Knights would approach, as either friend or foe, at a safe distance they would raise the face shields of their helmets. This was done with the right (weapon bearing) hand thus showing that there was no offensive weapon at the ready and a voluntary vulnerability by opening their armour. Again, this allowed the shield to be maintained in a defensive position thus reducing vulnerability from an attack. If friend, the Knights would approach each other maintaining this posture. If enemy, once the salute was exchanged the Knights would make their decision to battle or part.
It was customary for all Knights to pay homage to their Liege Lords by performing this salute. It was to show that they would allow themselves to be vulnerable to their leader. It is held that as structure developed within the Armies and Navies, it was to follow that all subordinates were asked to show the same respect to their superiors. This same philosophy still exists in all facets of all the worlds’ militaries.
It is interesting to note that Lord Baden Powell, father of the scouting movement, chose to have the members salute with their left hand. The philosophy was to show even more trust in those being encountered by using ones shield (protecting) hand, thus rendering the person defenceless. This is the ultimate sign of trust.
Occasions for Compliments (Saluting)
Compliments are paid to the following persons or on the following occasions as set out by the Canadian Armed Forces Doctrine:
• Her Majesty the Queen and all members of the Royal Family with standing
• The Governor General of Canada and Lieutenant Governors of the Provinces
• Foreign Sovereigns and members of Reigning Foreign Families with standing
• The Prime Minister of Canada
• Presidents and Chiefs of State of Commonwealth and Foreign Countries
• Officers, including those of Commonwealth and Foreign Countries
• During “God Save the Queen”, “O Canada”, and National Anthems of Foreign Countries are being played
• When the National Flag is being raised or lowered
• Uncased Standards, Guidons, or Colours, except when draped in black and carried at a funeral
• During the sounding of “The Last Post” and “Reveille”
• When passing the National War Memorial and Cenotaphs
• Passengers in vehicles bearing distinguishing flags or plates
Saluting
The salute will be given only when in complete uniform (with hat on). It is a quick motion to the edge of the hat using the right hand and a flat palm. Once acknowledged, the hand is returned quickly to the side. In cases where the salute is not acknowledged (i.e. flags, cenotaphs, etc,) a standard pause of “two-three” is observed, then the return is done. If performed during a sounding (i.e. National Anthem, Last Post, etc.) the salute is returned immediately at the conclusion of its sounding.
Specific Compliments
When formed in Ranks the following Compliments will occur:
1. At the Halt, the Commander will bring the Guard to Attention before saluting, then
salute on behalf of the Guard.
2. On the March, the command “Eyes right/left” will be given followed by the commander offering a salute to the honoured person/flag/item on behalf of the Guard.
National Anthem
1. All shall stand, and if civilian clothes hats will be removed.
2. Formed Guard will be called to attention and the Commander will salute.
3. Any member participating as a spectator in uniform will salute for the duration of the sounding.
General Salute
There are rare occasions that call for all persons formed in Ranks to perform a salute. This is usually associated with a funeral. When this occurs the Commander will call the Giard to attention and the command “General salute – salute” will be given. The salute will be held until the command to return to attention is given.
Etiquette
As a member of the Manitoba Paramedic Honour Guard you will be called upon to attend a variety of events and will be expected to be able to show the appropriate demeanor while acting in your role as the elite representative of the Emergency Medical Service. Each of these events has specific requirements and expectations and it is your responsibility to be prepared for these situations. To aid in this the following is a list of some of the environments that you may find yourself involved in, included are some items that may guide your actions in those situations.
1. Conversation
• Avoid dominating the conversation
• Respect others beliefs, political views, and opinions.
• Allow others to finish their statements
• Avoid personal agendas
• All persons of higher rank are to be addressed as “Sir” or “Ma’am”
• All persons not familiar to the member will be addressed as “Sir” or “Ma’am” until otherwise instructed
• All familiar persons will be initially addressed as “Sir” or “Ma’am” until they are engaged in conversation
• If you must leave the conversation, wait until the person has concluded speaking and politely excuse yourself with the appropriate apologies
• Keep conversation volume appropriate to the setting/surrounding
• Attempt to include others present in the conversation
• Avoid boisterous arguments/conversations, these can be returned to at a more appropriate time
• Speak clearly
• Avoid the use of profanity
• Include only humour appropriate to the person with which you are speaking • Avoid service specific political topics
2. Formal Dining
• Use good posture
• Avoid placing elbows on the table
• Gentlemen will assist ladies with their chairs on seating
• Gentlemen will rise as ladies rise from your table
• Always pour wine for the guests seated at your table
• Filling glasses a third to half full is usually a good guideline
• Engage in lively/light conversation at your table
• Use appropriate humour to entertain your guests
• Ensure all persons at your table have been introduced to each other
• Do not begin eating until all the guests at your table have been served
Avoid talking with food in your mouth
• Avoid accenting your conversation with your utensils
• Once you lift your cutlery, it should not touch the table again
Do not cut rolls with a knife; break rolls with the fingers and, if desired, butter each piece prior to eating it
• Ensure proper napkin placement and usage throughout the meal. Once you are seated place the napkin, unfolded, on your lap and leave it there until you are finished. Once you are finished place the napkin folded loosely to the left of your plate. If you need to leave the table during the meal, place the napkin on the chair and slide the chair under the table.
• Use the napkin prior to taking a drink from your glass
• If you must leave the table, excuse yourself when an appropriate opportunity arises
• Always ensure persons seated at your table are attended to prior to yourself
• Guard members should be the last served
• Avoid smoking at the table
• Avoid “over loading” your plate in buffet format dinners, it is much more appropriate to make a second trip
• Never try to help your waiter, or attempt to hand him or her a plate that you have finished with, merely lean to one side
• Attempt to ensure the needs of your guests are fulfilled
• When finished your meal do not push your plate away from you
• To inform the server that you are finished with a course of the meal, lay your fork and knife together across your plate. This will also prevent the utensils from slipping from the plate as it is removed.
3. Receiving Guests
• Receive persons at the entrance to the function facility
• Welcome the persons appropriately to the function with the proper address
• If applicable offer to assist with their coats
• Conduct the persons to their seating, if applicable offering your arm to the lady
• Ensure they are aware of the location of the various areas involved in the function
• Ask if you may assist them with any other requirements
• If applicable ensure introductions are made to the other persons they are joining
• On completion politely excuse yourself when the appropriate opportunity arises
4. Teas
• Use only polite conversation
• Move from conversation to conversation
• Choose appropriate menu items
• Use appropriate form when holding cup
• Ensure conversation volume is appropriate
• Eat lightly
5. Toasts
• Seize the opportunity to present the first toast
• Toast to the host of the function when appropriate
• Toast the persons at your table, special attention paid to the ladies that are present
• Toasts are made with Wine, Port, Cognac, and other specialty beverages Ensure the toasts are made at the appropriate time
• If toasting to the Queen, it is made from a standing position. It is a solitary toast made simply as “The Queen”, DO NOT touch glasses following, raise glass up and then to the mouth
• If toasting to the Unit, it is a solitary toast made simply as “The Guard”, DO NOT touch glasses following, raise the glass up and then to the mouth
• The preceding toasts are performed with your arm straight held away from your body, slightly raised, whereas "friendship", and congratulatory toasts are made with your elbow bent and the glass held about twelve inches in front of your face.
• Receive graciously any toast made in your or the Units honour
• Avoid repeated toasts; try to encompass all of your guests together when possible, unless stature precludes this. It keeps all of your guests of equal import.
6. Alcohol Consumption
• Drink beverages from a glass
• Choose beverages that are appropriate to the event
• DO NOT drink to excess while in uniform or representing the Guard or the EMS service
Avoid refusing those beverages given to you as a gesture of thanks
7. Smoking
• While in uniform members will remove themselves to an inconspicuous location to partake
• Exemption can be given to the consumption of cigars only when in the appropriate setting
• Avoid smoking in the view of any public
Smoking materials will be carried out of sight.