Marine Barracks Washington, D.C.

MARINE BARRACKS, Washington, D.C. -- Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, David S. C. Chu, observes "8th & I" Marines as they pass in review during the Evening Parade here June 7.

Chu is escorted by the Deputy Commandant for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, Lt. Gen. Garry L. Parks, and Col. Richard T. Tryon, Commanding Officer, Marine Barracks Washington.

A presidential appointee confirmed by the Senate, Chu is the Secretary's senior policy advisor on recruitment, career development, pay and benefits for 1.4 million active duty military personnel, 1.3 million Guard and Reserve personnel and 680,000 DoD civilians and is responsible for overseeing the state of military readiness.

The modern-day Evening Parade has been a tradition since July 5, 1957, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Here, the past, present and future of the Marine Corps meet to produce a dramatic celebration of the esprit de corps uniquely inherent to the United States Marine Corps.

More information about the post's units, history and ceremonial events can be obtained on the Internet at www.mbw.usmc.mil.