MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- Rifles soared silently through the air and audience members gasped with anticipation during the annual Battle Colors ceremony at Camp Pendleton’s Paige Field House and School of Infantry West, March 11.
The Marine Corps’ Battle Color Detachment which performs throughout the country consists of the Silent Drill Platoon, the U.S. Marine Drum and Bugle Corps and the Marine Corps Color Guard. The detachment’s performance showcases the esprit de corps of the United States Marines and recognizes those serving around the world who exemplify honor, courage and commitment.
The ceremony began with six performances by the unit that is commonly known as “The Commandant’s Own.” The U.S. Marine Drum and Bugle Corps, which is comprised of more than 80 Marine musicians, is currently the only one of its kind in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Following the musical performances, the 24-man Silent Drill Platoon displayed their precise, calculated drill movements by flinging ten-pound M1 rifles from Marine-to-Marine without any verbal commands.
“The Silent Drill Platoon is by far the nucleus and focal point of the show,” said Sgt. Tommy Washington, non-commissioned officer in charge, base adjutants office, and spectator of the event. “They do something that you don't see on a regular basis. You may have heard about the Battle Colors ceremony, but until you see it you will never get the full effect.”
The Silent Drill Platoon, Drum and Bugle Corps and official Marine Corps Color Guard completes the Battle Color Detachment that is stationed at 8th and I, Marine Barracks Washington, the oldest active post in the Corps. The units travel simultaneously all over the country to showcase their performances.
“We embody the true essence of tradition,” said Sgt. Joshua Miles, Drum and Bugle Corps, Marine Barracks Washington. “It’s not always just about performing; it’s about representing the Marine Corps.”
The nearly two hour-long ceremony represents the professionalism and esprit de corps that United States Marines take pride in.
The event’s guest of honor was Sgt. Maj. Bradley Kasal, Sergeant Major of SOI West. Kasal was awarded the Navy Cross for his heroic actions in 2004 during a Fallujah fire fight.
Concluding this year’s ceremony was a presentation of the national flag and Marine Corps official colors known as The Battle Colors.
The 54 streamers known as Battle Colors symbolize the awards given to the U.S. and foreign units, expeditions, and campaigns in which the Corps has fought in.