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S/F Gary
HMM-263 '66-'67

Miramar Hosts Marine Corps Battle Color Ceremony
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, San Diego (Feb. 23, 2007) – Marine Corps Air Station Miramar is scheduled to host the U.S. Marine Corps Battle Color Ceremony Monday, March 5 at 3:00 p.m. on the station's parade deck across from the O'Club.

The event is free and open to the public. Spectators are recommended to enter the station at the East Gate, off Highway-15, or the North Gate off Miramar Rd to avoid traffic.

The Battle Color Ceremony features the Marine Corps Color Guard, the U.S. Marine Drum and Bugle Corps and the Silent Drill Platoon. The pinnacle of Marine ceremonial proficiency, these elite units are appropriately assigned to the Corps’ flagship of tradition, Marine Barracks, Washington D.C., “Oldest Post in the Corps.”

The U.S. Marine Drum and Bugle Corps, known as “The Commandant’s Own,” is the epitome of musical excellence. The Drum and Bugle Corps’ musical prowess, coupled with its superb and creative marching skills, is testimony to its rigorous year-round training and performance regimen. These talented musicians combine beautifully arranged contemporary songs and traditional marching music with uniquely choreographed drill movements.

The Silent Drill Platoon performs precision drill unlike any other unit in the world. With fixed bayonets atop their highly polished M-1 rifles, these Marines entertain the audience with their intricate drill routine performed without verbal commands. The Silent Drill Platoon’s rifle inspector highlights the performance with an unrivaled inspection of his Marines that exhibits their high level of discipline and training.

The Battle Color is the official flag of the Marine Corps. Flanking the National Ensign on her right, the 54 streamers and silver bands displayed on the Battle Color commemorate the military campaigns in which Marines have participated. These battles span the entire history of our nation, from the American Revolution to the present. The Color Sergeant is responsible for carrying the National Ensign and is considered the senior sergeant in the Marine Corps. This Marine is selected for the eminent position from among many outstanding sergeants throughout the Corps.

The Battle Color Ceremony demonstrates qualities that all Marines hold dear: pride, discipline, esprit de corps, tradition and teamwork. The values exhibited in this ceremony have been handed down to each successive generation of Marines since the Corps was founded Nov. 10, 1775.

Please contact the Miramar Public Affairs Office at (858) 577-6000 for more information.