Behind the Scenes: BAT Class 238’s Guidon Now on Display

The DEA Museum shares the Drug Enforcement Administration’s story, past and present. Its new design, completed in 2019 following an extensive renovation, features a special changing display that honors recent Basic Agent Training (BAT) graduates. Visitors can now see a BAT class guidon, or flag, hanging in a custom-made lobby window. The guidon will be changed as classes graduate, recognizing newly-minted special agents’ hard work and dedication to DEA’s mission.

Traditionally used to signify a military unit, a guidon, or swallow-tailed flag, is given to every BAT class in a formal ceremony. The agents-in-training carry it with them and protect it throughout the 16-week, entry-level program in Quantico, Virginia. Two of each flag are made, and upon graduation, one guidon remains at Quantico while the other is transferred to the Museum's collection.

In May 2023, the Museum installed BAT class 238's guidon, which is dedicated to Group Supervisor Michael G. Garbo. He was killed in the line of duty during a 2021 law enforcement operation in Tucson, Arizona. The tradition of dedicating class flags to fallen colleagues began in January 1997 with class number 111. Names are chosen from DEA’s Wall of Honor, located near the lobby’s guidon display.

To learn more about BAT guidons and what it takes to become a DEA special agent, visit the DEA Museum or check out April’s episode of “Stories from the Collection,” a monthly video series on the Museum’s most exciting artifacts.