MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- Motivation, inspiration and entertainment reigned over Camp Pendleton’s 11 Area Parade Deck and School of Infantry West during the annual Battle Colors ceremony, March 9.
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 official 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 that 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.
“Our job is to motivate, inspire and entertain, and I think we did an outstanding job doing that today,” said Master Gunnery Sgt. Kevin D. Buckles, senior enlisted advisor of Marine Barracks Washington, also the drum major for the U.S. Marine Drum & Bugle Corps.
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.
“Our main mission in the drum and bugle corps is to motivate and inspire Marines throughout the world, and we definitely see that when we come to Camp Pendleton,” said Sgt. Trevor L. Solberg, a percussionist with the U.S. Marine Drum & Bugle Corps. “Camp Pendleton is one of the bigger bases for the infantry, and when I see them get motivated from what I do, it makes me want to be a better Marine and support what they do.”
The nearly two hour-long ceremony represents the professionalism and esprit de corps that United States Marines take pride in.
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.