MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- The 2008 United States Marine Corps Battle Color Ceremony came to Camp Pendleton March 7, with performances at the School of Infantry and Paige Field. The bleachers were filled with Marines, sailors, veterans and families who came to see the Marine Corps Drum and Bugle Corps and Silent Drill Platoon.
“If you haven’t seen this (ceremony) before, you haven’t lived,” said Col. James B. Seaton III, commanding officer, Marine Corps Base, at the start of the ceremony. “You’re going to see something that represents much of the tradition on which our Corps is based.”
The Commandant’s Own, Marine Corps Drum and Bugle Corps, marched onto the field dressed in brilliant red and white uniforms. They played contemporary compositions and performed uniquely choreographed drill movements.
During their last compositions, the 24 -member Silent Drill Platoon gracefully marched on. Dressed in ceremonial blue and white uniforms, they took the spotlight, performing an intricate series of calculated drill movements and precise rifle handling with bayoneted 10-pound M-1 rifles without verbal commands.
“I’ve been waiting to see the Silent Drill Platoon since last year,” said veteran John Cannizzaoo, who served with Anti-Aircraft Artillery Battalion, 1st Marine Division in 1953. “It’s an honor and a privilege to see pride, honor and precision up close.”
Once the platoon finished their famous rifle inspections, conducted by rifle inspector Cpl. Anthony Hill, the Color Sergeant of the Marine Corps presented the national flag and the official colors of the Marine Corps, known as The Battle Colors. It is decorated with 54 multi-colored streamers which represent the battles, campaigns, and expeditions Marines have participated in during the past 232 years.
Following the presentation of the Colors and National Anthem, the Commanding General of Marine Corps Installations West, Maj. Gen. Michael R. Lehnert stood with Seaton as the units passed in review to conclude the ceremony.
“It’s very motivating to see so many people of the community come out to see Marine Corps discipline at it’s best,” said Lance Cpl. John A. Galvan, Amphibious Assault School Battalion student.
The ceremonial Marines are stationed at Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C., which is known as the “Oldest Post of the Corps.”
“Tradition, history, excellence, flawless and magnificent are the only words that describe this ceremony,” said Col. William Gillespie, operations and training facility chief of staff, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.