Master Gunnery Sgt. William L. Brown, U.S. Marine Band drum major, forms his platoon of musicians in front of the Home of the Commandants to prepare for the annual New Year’s Day serenade at Marine Barracks Washington Jan. 1. It was the band’s first opportunity to uphold the age-old tradition and serenade Gen. James F. Amos and his wife in front of their home. Last year, Amos’ first year as commandant, the ceremony was held in front of Crawford Hall here due to renovations to the Home of the Commandants. (Official Marine Corps Photo by Lance Cpl. Mondo Lescaud/Released)