On Sunday, April 27, 2025, Girl Scout Troop 40889 from Chelsea, Michigan, made history, and the CPOF Honor Guard was honored to be part of it.

Over several weeks, CPOF Honor Guard member Lora Hodges had the privilege of working with this remarkable group of young girls, ages 8 to 9, as they undertook a unique and inspiring project. After being repeatedly turned away from color guard training opportunities regularly offered to Boy Scout troops, the girls took it upon themselves to pursue the training they had been denied.

As part of their Bronze Award journey, the highest achievement available to their age group, Troop 40889 chose to become the first official, trained Girl Scout Color Guard in the state of Michigan.

Over three training sessions in March and April, the troop received instruction in drill and ceremony, flag etiquette, folding, presentation, and the raising and lowering of the American flag. They trained not only during their sessions with Lora, but also during recess, after school, and on weekends.

That dedication culminated in a powerful moment on April 27, when the troop proudly presented the colors at a Lansing Lugnuts baseball game. In front of a packed stadium, their families, and nine members of the Michigan Department of Corrections Honor Guard, these girls demonstrated professionalism, poise, and patriotism. They inspired not only those in attendance, but future generations of Girl Scouts who now see what’s possible.

Their journey is far from over. In the coming months, they will continue presenting colors at local Veterans events, Memorial Day parades, and city council meetings. They’ve also been invited to escort the Michigan Wardogs and will soon travel to Arlington National Cemetery, where they will have the profound honor of laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, an extraordinary opportunity for any American, and especially meaningful for such a young group.

On June 4, Troop 40889 will be awarded their Bronze Award, becoming Michigan’s first official Girl Scout Color Guard.

The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation and the CPOF Honor Guard are immensely proud of these young leaders. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Lora Hodges for representing the foundation during this meaningful and memorable experience.

As Lora shared, this experience left a lasting impact not only on the girls, but on her as well. “These ladies and their families have become part of my extended family,” she said. “Every morning, I wake up to messages, videos, and smiles from these beautiful young souls. It’s a great way to start the day.”

CPOF is honored to have played a small part in their remarkable journey and looks forward to seeing the legacy they continue to build.