Then-Mayor Frank McDonald Jr. tapped Guest, then 59 years old, to replace Art Gann as chief. At the time, Guest had served with the EPD for 34 years in various commanding roles.

There was no Republic Day Chief guest in 2021 and 2022 in view of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, then Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro was the chief guest at the Republic Day celebration.

Traditionally, the event’s Chief Guest is a government leader, and the 2025 event will follow suit by hosting Jacksonville City Council Member Rahman Johnson. Dr.

Al-Sisi's visit to India as the chief guest also holds importance as both countries are celebrating the 76th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations this year.