The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Honor Guard (SHG) recently welcomed four new members into its ranks. SHG members come from across the country as law enforcement officers and firefighters, representing a wide range of experience. The SHG is a specially trained, uniquely decorated, and highly disciplined unit that represents the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) when fulfilling ceremonial duties for fallen comrades and during special functions. These services honor FWS employees, as well as provide comfort and support to survivors of those who have fallen. The SHG welcomes Ryan Sharpe, Ryan Aeby, David Taylor, and Kathryn Sebes as the newest members.
New Honor Guard members from left to right: Ryan Sharpe, Ryan Aeby, David Taylor, and Kathryn Sebes.
Ryan Sharpe
Ryan Sharpe, Oklahoma and North Texas Zone Fire Management Officer, has been with FWS for 14 years. He was inspired to join the SHG after attending a SHG ceremony at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge in Florida, honoring the 1981 wildfire fatalities of Beau Sauselein and Scott Maness. This experience motivated Ryan to become part of the SHG so that he could better honor future fallen comrades with professionalism and dedication.
Ryan, originally from Florida, loves hiking, fishing, and exploring on his dad’s old boat.
Ryan Aeby
Ryan Aeby, California North Central Valley Zone Fire Management Officer, has been with FWS for 11 years. His desire to support those who have given to the FWS motivated him to dedicate his attention to the SHG. Ryan has attended several life celebrations during his fire career and wanted to be able to provide the utmost respect for the fallen and their families. Ryan and his wife have been married for 20 years and have two daughters. As a family they enjoy outdoor activities, such as mountain biking, hiking, and swimming in local streams.
David Taylor
Federal Wildlife Officer (FWO) David Taylor has been with FWS for one year. He is currently the FWO for the Northern New Mexico National Wildlife Refuge Complex. David was inspired to join SHG from the beginning when he stumbled across information on the program while applying for his current position with the FWS. The information he discovered left him impressed with the high standards and professionalism required to fulfill SHG duties. Additionally, David has several close friends whose families have experienced the services of other honor guards for their overseas military service. His experiences left him feeling a sense of ownership and duty to honor those who have dedicated their lives to service. His participation in the SHG was one way he could always honor their legacy and sacrifices. David looks forward to working with the SHG team and provide support and comfort to families during difficult times.
When not at work, David attends school to complete a Bachelor’s degree in Police Administration. He is also training for the Marine Corps Marathon.
Kathryn Sebes
Assistant Fire Management Officer for the Balcones Fire Management Zone (Texas), Kathryn Sebes has been with FWS for eight years. Kathryn was inspired to join the SHG to support her fellow FWS members and their families during times of need. She is honored to be part of a great team and sees her role of providing last honors for those who have dedicated their lives to the FWS as one of the highest ways she can give back.
