The United States Marine Corps Battle Color Detachment is comprised of three performing ceremonial units from Marine Barracks Washington, D.C.: the Marine Corps Color Guard, the Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon, and the Marine Corps Drum & Bugle Corps. Every year, Marines of the BCD travel in every clime and to every place in the WORLD to perform for hundreds and thousands of spectators. These valiant men and women represent the best of America, and they personify the PROUD spirit of our nation!
The United States Marine Corps Color Guard is unique. It is comprised of four Marines: the Color Sergeant, the Marine Corps Color Bearer, and the Left and Right Riflemen. The Color Guard includes the National Colors, carried by the Color Sergeant of the Marine Corps and is the only official Battle Color of the United States Marines. A duplicate is maintained in the office of the Commandant of the Marine Corps in the Pentagon. The Battle Colors bear the same fifty streamers authorized for the Marine Corps as a whole. These streamers represent U.S. and foreign unit awards as well as those periods of service, expeditions, and campaigns in which the Marine Corps has participated from the American Revolution to today. The Color Guard section has three teams and often participates in more than 1,000 ceremonies annually, regularly two to eight per day.
The United States Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon is a 24-man rifle platoon that performs a unique precision drill exhibition. This highly disciplined platoon exemplifies the professionalism associated with the United States Marine Corps. The Silent Drill Platoon first performed in the Sunset Parades of 1948 and received such an overwhelming response that it soon became a regular part of the parades at Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C.
The United States Marine Drum & Bugle Corps, traditionally known as "The Commandant's Own," is comprised of 85 Marines recruited from various civilian drum corps, marching bands and other musical units within the Marine Corps. The unit combines contemporary songs and traditional marching music with uniquely choreographed drill movements in a program entitled "Music in Motion."
Request for ceremonial support from the Marine Corps Color Guard, Silent Drill Platoon, or Drum and Bugle Corps for participation in your event can be submitted here.
Use the button on the right to request Marine Battle Color Detachment.
For additional information on these units visit Marine Barracks Washington (8th & I).