Often those who protect another are referred to as bodyguards. Even in an official publication such as History of the Church, there are a few brethren listed as Joseph Smith’s bodyguards.
After the death of Joseph Smith the Church began its move to the Salt Lake valley. The need for a body guard started to diminish as Brigham Young passed away in 1877. The civil war had been over for about 10 years and the “wild west” was calming down as the push west was progressing. Within about 20 years the wild west would be history and persecution was so much less in Utah.
In 1973 Larry Mullins was asked to serve as the bodyguard to the President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. One of the conditions was that he was not allowed to tell anyone but his wife. At that time it was thought that the fact that security would be needed was too upsetting for the average member of the church. Up until 1974, the leaders of the Church evidently did not feel a strong impression that any kind of security was needed; but sometime during that year, the Spirit spoke loud and clear that there was now a pressing need that was real and serious.
I would like to recognize these unsung heroes who work so hard to keep our Prophets and Apostles safe and secure. I have a good friend who serves with Church Security and this department has expanded over the years. The Church Security department originally trained with Secret Service agents and their training reflects similar operations. As per any security agency or department, specifics of operations are never discussed. I’ve learned how they operate through my friend and I can say, they are well versed in current security and executive protection ideas and trends.
This list is not official and is compiled by very loose standards. So I’m sure there are numerous errors. I just wanted to recognize these who have served.
The Book of the Law of the Lord is a special book that functioned as a combination journal for Joseph, copy book for revelations and a tithing record. Members whose names appeared in this book were considered worthy to enter the temple.
One of my heroes, Orrin Porter Rockwell
In the blessing, Joseph named several men, including
Erastus Derby
John D. Parker
Amasa Lyman
Wilson Law
Henry G. Sherwood
Joseph B. Nobles
Among others, who one could say acted as bodyguards or supported the prophet while he was in hiding.
History of the Church, Vol. 7
Alpheus Cutler (capt.)
Amos C. Hodge
James Allred
Thomas Grover
Reynolds Cahoon
Shadrack Roundy
John Snyder
Christian Kreymer
Lewis D. Wilson
William Marks
James Emmet
John L. Butler
Samuel H. Smith
Edward Hunter, herald and armor bearer
Mosiah Hancock
One of the these above brethren are my Great (4) Grandfather
After 1973:
Larry Mullins
David Sayer
Richard Bretzing (One of my son’s former mission President)
J. Martell Bird
Gregory Dunn
Jeff Berrett
Greg Rampton
Todd Richens
Kenneth Porter
Ronald D. Francis
Hal A. Ludlow
Kevin Richardson
Claron E. Swenson
We honor those who protect and stay in the background. Normally, you wouldn’t even know they are there constantly watching and preparing. LDS Gunsite salutes you and thanks you for your selfless service.
The Prophet once asked the members of the Legion if they were not all his boys, and they shouted "Yes!" Mosiah Hancock, one of his bodyguards stood on the rail of the fence in front of the Mansion. The Prophet said, "Brethren, the Lord Almighty has this day revealed to me something I never comprehended before! That is—I have friends who have at a respectful distance been ready to ward off the blows of the adversary.” He brought his hand down on Mosiah’s head, “while others have pretended to be my friends, have crept into my bosom, and have become vipers—my most deadly enemies. I wish you to be obedient to these true men as you have promised. ARE YOU WILLING TO DIE FOR ME?" "Yes!" was the shout. "You have said you are willing to die for me—." Then he drew his sword and cried, "I WILL DIE FOR YOU! If this people cannot have their rights, my blood shall run upon the ground like water."
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
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