All of the men and women who have honorably served America through its armed forces are entitled to a military funeral—and a regional group of National Guard members are insuring troops get the rites they deserve.

To utilize the free service, the only thing needed is a discharge certificate or a form verifying the deceased’s service.

National Guard Sgt. Maj. Ronnie Lee of Prosperity says the military escort is for all, “We are an army of one, not just National Guard. Patriotism does not go by a uniform.”

The honor guard will also do funerals for those being cremated.

The honor guard includes 13 active duty soldiers that assist with providing service, as well as 30 or more traditional soldiers.

“Most of us have received training from the standard operating procedures of the 3rd Infantry Regiment ‘Old Guard’ which provides all services at Arlington Cemetery, to include sentinels at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier,” said Lee. The honor guard that Lee is involved with covers Newberry and many surrounding counties.

For all non-retired troops, a three-man honor guard is sent to the service, for retired military an eight-person team goes to the funeral and a full honor team goes for E-8 or Sergeant Majors or above.

The service includes an escort, folding and presentation of the flag and taps.

“We give (the deceased military person) all we can give him,” said Lee of the services.

The honor guard is divided into three regions in the state and they do about two funerals a day.

The group also does escorts for state dignitaries such as governors and U.S. congress members.

With the Lifetime television series “Army Wives” filming in Charleston, the honor guard has also been asked to be a part of several episodes.

Currently, the team is training for a national competition and the prize will be to do a full honors service at Arlington and national recognition.

The honor guard can be requested at the funeral home while the family is planning the services.