(l to r)Front row: Dennis Hanna, Steve Mortimore, Bob Allison, Bob Levi, Tom Orman, Bob Walke - First Lieutenant, L. Dean Redmon - P.P. Middle Row: Bob Peirson, Norm Long, Henry Hertel, Don Twiselton, Jim Fry - P.P., Hal Schaefer, Shane Cline, Stan Petersen Back row: Michael Brain - Divan Rep, Dave Benderson, Ron Calvert, Jerry Nixon - Captain, Wayne Jones - President, Dave Goodwin, Al Wall, Chet Helland - Secretary, Duane Nesetril - Treasurer Not Pictured: Ben Blackstock, Harlan Hamdorf, Tom McNamara, Doug Ralston, Kevin Hirl - Vice President

The El Kahir Color Guard had its beginning back in 1951 when it was organized as the Provost Guard. Its function then was to act as a police unit for El Kahir Shrine--controlling parade crowds, tiling doors during ceremonials, assisting the Potentate at his will and pleasure, and to help maintain the proper demeanor of the Nobility during ceremonials. The uniform was military in style with epaulets, Eisenhower jackets and paratrooper boots. However, through the years, the uniform has been transformed into a classy parade dress uniform.

The Unit lacked a real purpose for existence as other units were formed to assist the El Kahir Shrine and Potentate. Subsequently, it was decided that the name would be changed to the "Color Guard". The group was then developed into a precision Flag Drill Unit with an American flag point guard, a six-man front line consisting of the American, Canadian, Mexican, Panamanian, El Kahir Shrine, and Imperial Sir Russell 'Doc' Anthony's Flags and a two-man line each carrying an American flag. Precision maneuvers were developed for the two-row flag bearers which are beautiful to watch, all this is done while the Unit still maintains a forward motion. It should be noted that these precision drills are only accomplished by many hours of concentrated drill practices. Directed by the captain, the practices are held every spring through midsummer; others are scheduled prior to any major parade activity.

The El Kahir Color Guard receives many invitations from eastern Iowa communities to parade in their various celebrations and many appearances are made every summer. In addition to a heavy parade schedule, a variety of social activities are held annually for the members and wives which keep the Unit functioning at maximum efficiency and enjoyment.

Every parade Unit member is proud to carry the flag of our beloved country and to handle it with care and respect. When El Kahir Shrine parades, the waiting crowd first sees the Color Guard with its array of beautiful flags and maneuvers. "Time marches on" and with it, the El Kahir Color Guard.

For information, comments, or suggestions about the El Kahir Color Guard, please email Wayne Jones, the unit president.