Tradition
The Oak Bay Firefighters Honour Guard was established in 2006 by a collaboration between Prevention Captain Ken Gill and Fire Chief Dave Cockle to commemorate exemplary service and represent firefighting personnel at ceremonial events, memorials, and public occasions. The unit operates with strict adherence to discipline, precision, and respectful ceremonial conduct. Throughout the years, the Honour Guard maintans six uniformed members and is a 100% volunteer effort preserving fire service traditions. We continue to represent the fire department with the utmost pride both our department, our union and the tradtions of firefiighting.
Command and leadership
WIth the retirement of Captain Ken Gill in 2012, Lt J. Joynson accepted the nomination for leadership of the guard, today Platoon Captain Joynson continues to command the guard carrying on where Ken left off. Under his leadership a new uniform specifically designed for the members of the guard was purchased with 50/50 cost split between the management and the union. He designed and sourced a new honour guard shoulder flash, as seen above, to show the collaboration between the district and the union for the honour guard. He also designed new regalia, such as the crossed axe OBFD shoulder tiles and HG pins, which the union funded solely.
PC Joynson’s leadership organizes the guard for special events and important celebrations within the Capital Region, and upholds rigorous standards for drill, appearance, and ceremonial protocol, ensuring consistent presentation at all engagements.
Mission and duties
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- Perform ceremonial drill and color guard duties at official department and union events.
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- Represent the firefighting service with professional bearing and decorum, honoring traditions.
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- Support commemorations of line of duty deaths and significant anniversaries.
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- foster esprit de corps and strengthen ties between the fire department and the public.
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- Attend and honour retiree’s and retiring members.
Training and standards
Members undergo structured training in drill movements, marching discipline, axe and pike pole equipment handling (where applicable), ceremonial protocols, and uniform etiquette. Selection of members emphasizes reliability, teamwork, and respectful conduct during formal proceedings and all members volunteer to be in the guard, serve without remuneration.
Recruitment and eligibility
Applicants are evaluated for physical fitness, suitability for ceremonial duties, and commitment to the values of service and sacrifice. First class firefighting level experience is not always mandatory, depending on the specific vacancy and unit requirements, but most members are at the senior firefighters and officers of the department.
Notable activities
The Honour Guard participates in national and local ceremonies (BCPFFA Fallen firefighters memorial, IAFF Fallen Firefighters Memorial), official parades (Oak bay Tea Party, Victoria Day), memorial services (LODD, Council/Mayoral funeral services), and public demonstrations that highlight the courage, devotion and dedication of firefighters. Our presence emphasizes unity, professionalism, and the enduring respect afforded to the firefighting profession.
