In an era where traditions often fade, the Alliance of Canadian Paramedic Honour Guards (ACPHG) stands as a symbol of respect and professionalism. Established in 2007, the Alliance now includes 46 paramedic honour guard units across Canada, with the most recent addition in Yukon. These groups not only pay tribute to fallen paramedics but also enhance the public image of the profession and connect with the next generation of paramedics.
The ACPHG’s Annual Roundtable
Since 2007, the paramedic service honour guards of the Alliance have hosted their annual roundtable in a different province each year. This year’s event will be held at the Greater Sudbury service in Ontario on April 12-13. Blaine Barody, President of the ACPHG adds, “We’ll present the latest iteration of the drill instructor program in the senior leader’s course and discuss training needs, exploring ways to support each other by sharing resources and information.”
A Role Beyond Ceremonies
Paramedic honour guards have been present in Canada since the late 1980s, and their role extends beyond ceremonial duties. They represent the profession during significant events—whether commemorating fallen colleagues, celebrating milestones, or marking other important moments. Barody explains, “Half of what we do is funeral and memorial in nature, but the other half is much happier.” Honour guards also participate in ceremonies for graduations, retirements, station openings, awards, and even weddings. In both sorrow and joy, they present paramedics’ best face, showcasing discipline and dedication that positively influence public perception of the profession.
The Impact of the ACPHG on the Professional Image of Paramedics
One of the ACPHG’s core missions is to enhance the professional image of paramedics across Canada. Through training programs and events, the Alliance equips paramedics with the tools to present themselves with pride. Barody, an Advanced Care Paramedic with 30 years of experience in Alberta, says the ACPHG helps paramedics “represent the profession positively and put their best foot forward.”
For Barody, these ceremonies represent much more than tradition—they are expressions of respect and professionalism. “When you wear a dress uniform, it should be in top condition and worn appropriately. When we stand beside police, fire, and Canadian Forces, we want to look like we belong there.”
Joining the Alliance
For paramedics looking to start an honour guard, the process is straightforward. “First, speak with your chief and organization, then reach out to the Alliance. From there, we’ll add your group to our list of members and invite you to upcoming opportunities,” says Barody. This highlights the importance of local leadership, paired with national support, in creating successful units. The Alliance helps by offering resources and mentorship, with Barody noting, “What took us 10 or 15 years to accomplish, we could help other groups achieve in just a couple of years.”
A Unified Community
In a world where traditions can be overlooked, the ACPHG serves as a reminder that some customs are worth preserving. The alliance unites paramedic honour guards across Canada, offering a shared sense of purpose. “Our motto is Semper memorial—always remembered,” says Barody. This unity is helping paramedics connect with one another and the public.
Demers and Crestline Ambulances are proud to support the Alliance’s conferences and initiatives. As ambulance manufacturers, we understand the importance of supporting paramedics at every level—from the vehicles they drive to the ceremonial aspects that foster camaraderie and respect within the profession.
