MARINE CORPS AIR STATION, HUMA, Ariz. -- MARINE CORPS AIR STATION YUMA, Ariz. – Over the past several weeks, “The Commandant’s Own” United States Marine Drum & Bugle Corps has been training to prepare for upcoming performances in Australia and New Zealand with the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, showcasing Marine Barracks Washington’s legacy and musical excellence on an international stage.
“The things that 'The Commandant's Own' and Marine Barracks Washington Marines do represent the Marine Corps as a whole on both the national and world stage,” said Sgt. Maj. Jimmy F. Richard, sergeant major of Marine Barracks Washington. “It's the professionalism, discipline, and military appearance, that make the Marine Corps and our country great. The Drum & Bugle Corps exemplifies these traits.”
The Drum & Bugle Corps' intense warm-weather training at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma enabled them to build their performance piece by piece in preparation for the 2026 Parade Season. From daily rehearsals to adjusting to the heat, the Drum & Bugle Corps pre-parade season regiment extends far beyond playing the right notes. During training, the Marines learn new songs, coordinate their steps, and exemplify "Music in Motion".
Following their training in Yuma, “The Commandant’s Own” arrived in Australia to rehearse with the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and other military musical elements from across the globe. The culmination of their tour includes performances in Brisbane and Auckland, demonstrating that the musical skill of these ensembles transcends borders.
“This year, our show is designed to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary,” said Capt. Courtney Lawrence, executive officer of “The Commandant’s Own". “As a tribute to our nation's history, this year's music was created by American composers, giving a symbolic and patriotic nod to those who came before us. It’s all super high energy and very entertaining.”
For "The Commandant's Own", performing alongside the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is an opportunity to share knowledge, friendship, and musical excellence on the international stage. The collaboration, professionalism, and precision on display at each rehearsal and performance are a result of the values of each musician on stage. These same values and traits define every Marine who has served at the “Oldest Post of the Corps” for the past 225 years.
“This tour is an opportunity for the Drum & Bugle Corps to serve as the musical ambassadors for Marine Barracks Washington and the Marine Corps. We’re representing Marines not only at the Barracks, but all Marines who have served since 1775,” said Capt. Lawrence.
Performances abroad allow these Marines to leave lasting impressions, not only through their musical excellence, but through the way they carry themselves, connecting with musicians, servicemembers, and their audiences abroad.
“Many people have never met a U.S. Marine, and this tour is a unique chance to show the world what defines our nation's Corps while expanding the Marines' horizons,” said Capt. Lawrence. “Music is a universal language, and we're grateful to communicate the Marine Corps' values on the international stage alongside our allies and partners.”
As "The Commandant’s Own" United States Marine Drum & Bugle Corps tours Australia and New Zealand, they demonstrate over 250 years of Marine Corps excellence through performances and community engagements, including their participation in the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Brisbane. This tour emphasizes the Corps’ legacy and strengthens ties with our allies.