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
Marines execute a series of calculated drill movements and
precise handling of their hand-polished, 10 and one-half
pound, M-1 Garand rifles with fixed bayonets. The routine
concludes with a unique rifle inspection sequence demonstrating
elaborate rifle spins and tosses.
These
Marines are individually selected from the Schools of Infantry
located in Camp Pendleton, CA and Camp Lejune, NC from interviews
conducted by Barracks personnel. Once selected, Marines
are assigned to Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C. to serve
a 2-year ceremonial tour. Beyond their ceremonial duties,
the Marines collaterally train in the field as infantrymen.
Throughout the year, these Marines hone their infantry skills
at the Marine Corps Combat Development Command in Quantico,
VA and other bases.
Experienced
members of the Silent Drill Platoon have the opportunity
to audition to become Rifle Inspectors. They must go through
inspection tryouts graded by the Rifle Inspectors of the
previous year. Only two Marines per year are selected to
become Rifle Inspectors. They, along with the Platoon Drill
Master, are entrusted with keeping and passing on the unique
knowledge and traditions of the Silent Drill Platoon.
Once
the yearÂ’s Silent Drill Platoon Marines are selected each
fall, they begin their rigorous training at Marine Barracks,
Washington D.C. and later move to Marine Corps Air Station,
Yuma, AZ in order to perfect the routine. Throughout the
year, they perform in front of hundreds of thousands of
spectators at Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C. and at numerous
events across the United States and abroad.
If
you are interested in scheduling a performance by the Silent
Drill Platoon, you may download the sponsor
requirements to see if your event qualifies. If your
event qualifies, download the request
for support form. The completed form may be faxed to
the Marine Barracks Washington Scheduling office at (202)
433-4594 or e-mailed to the platoon.
Please
contact the platoon
for further information. You can look at their current schedule here.
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