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The Queens' Guard
Company W-4 |
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>>Would you like to help support
our organization?
The Queens’ Guard and
Pershing Rifles Company W-4 20 September 2006 Forty five years ago, William and Mary’s President Paschal chartered the Queens' Guard in honor of Queen Elizabeth II of England. Back then, the sixty Guardsmen performed all around the country. As the decades passed the strength of the Queens' Guard has dwindled, but during the last two years it has experienced a resurgence of participation. During the last several years we have taken part in a number of campus and community events. On each anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks, we post an Honor Guard at the head of the Sunken Gardens next to a memorial wreath. A few weeks later, during Homecoming Weekend, the Queens’ Guard provides a Color Guard and 21-Gun Salute for the Sunset Ceremony honoring alumni who had died the previous year. As tradition dictates, we also lead the Homecoming Parade following President Nichol with a Color Guard and Trick Drill component. Later in the year, we perform a trick exhibition for prospective students. Our last appearance in May was at the Old Guard Induction Ceremony honoring alumni of the Class of 1956. On a more regular basis, we present the U.S., Virginia, and College colors at the start of varsity games. Unfortunately, the future of the Queens’ Guard is in some doubt. My gravest concern is the condition of our signature scarlet uniforms. We are down to fourteen serviceable uniforms, most of which date back to the 1960s. Of these, many have buttons missing and fabric torn; some are held together only by safety pins. Most bearskin headdresses are also in severe disrepair after over four decades of use. We have asked Queens’ Guard alumni for financial help and I have been thrilled over the support we have received thus far. I wish to extend my gratitude to one former Guardsman in particular. Major General James M. Lyle (ret) of the Class of 1962 has extended a challenge to the Queens’ Guard he helped found. General Lyle promised us a significant donation provided at least one member in each of the first twenty-five classes since the founding of the Queens’ Guard, from the Class of 1961 to 1986, donates $717, the cost to outfit one Guardsman. In addition to this challenge, we are offering the honorary title of Queens’ Guard Grenadier to any alumni or friend of the Queens’ Guard who graciously contributes more than $200 to our organization. If you have any questions, suggestions, or comments that could improve the Queens' Guard campaign please contact me at the letterhead address or e-mail me at queens@wm.edu. Your interest and support is sincerely appreciated,
Matthew Hanson
Loyal Queens' Guard
Supporters
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