In the solemn traditions of law enforcement, few acts carry as much reverence as the Honor Watch. This sacred vigil is a time-honored custom performed by law enforcement honor guard teams to pay tribute to officers who have died in the line of duty. It is a visual and powerful symbol of unwavering respect, brotherhood, and remembrance—one that stands as a final show of solidarity for the fallen and a promise to their families that they will never be forgotten.

What Is Honor Watch?

Honor Watch is the continuous, ceremonial act of standing guard over the body of a fallen law enforcement officer. From the moment of passing until the officer is laid to rest, fellow officers ensure that their brother or sister is never left alone. Members of the Honor Guard take turns standing vigil in uniform, often in silence, at the head and foot of the casket during the viewing and services.

This gesture of devotion spans locations—from the hospital or medical examiner’s office to the funeral home, memorial services, and finally to the burial site. Officers rotate in shifts, ensuring a constant presence of respect and remembrance.

Key Elements of Honor Watch:

• Continuous Vigil: Officers stand in rotating shifts, often through the night, to maintain a constant presence with the fallen.

• Casket Watch: During the viewing or wake, guards stand at attention at both ends of the casket, maintaining their post until formally relieved.

• Ceremonial Duties: The Honor Guard often provides additional honors, including presenting the national and departmental colors, acting as pallbearers, performing flag folding ceremonies, and conducting the final salute.

A Promise Kept for Parole Agent Joshua Byrd

This sacred tradition was recently carried out for Parole Agent Joshua Byrd of CDCR’s Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO), who was tragically killed in the line of duty on July 17, 2025. From the moment of his passing until he was laid to rest, Agent Byrd was never alone. CDCR staff and law enforcement officers, including members of the newly formed DAPO Honor Guard, maintained an Honor Watch in his memory.

Agent Byrd’s service, sacrifice, and the Honor Watch that accompanied him on his final journey will never be forgotten. His watch has ended—but our watch over his memory continues.

To view the video and article featuring several familiar faces performing this sacred duty for Agent Byrd, click here.

At the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation, we are proud to support and stand alongside the officers who perform this solemn service and to honor the lives of those who gave everything in the line of duty. Through every vigil, salute, and folded flag, we remember: They are never alone.