Washington, D.C. -- The U.S. Marine Band serenaded Gen. James F. Amos, commandant of the Marine Corps, and his wife, on the sun porch of their home at Marine Barracks Washington Jan. 1.
This was the first time the Amoses were entertained in the backyard of the longest continually occupied building in Washington, D.C., the Home of the Commandants.
The annual tradition of the band surprising the top commander with a musical serenade started in the early 1800s. Lt. Col Franklin Wharton, 3rd commandant of the Marine Corps, woke up Jan. 1 and actually didn’t expect to see the band in his backyard.
Amos said he had been looking forward to the ceremony since last year.
January 1, 2011, Amos’ first New Year’s Day as commandant, the home was undergoing major renovations. A large tarp blanketed the structure, and the surprise ceremony was held on the Barracks parade field.
The band, directed by Col. Michael J. Colburn, band commanding officer, played “Marines’ Hymn,” “Stars and Stripes Forever,” “Bless This House,” and “Semper Fidelis.”
After the musical ensemble, the band, as tradition has it, was invited into the home to have a warm brunch and hot spiced rum.
“It was a great honor to be a part of this rich tradition,” said Staff Sgt. David Constantine, USMB percussionist. “It was a great way to bring in the new year and it was truly awesome to be invited into the commandant’s home for brunch. I learned a lot about the history of the home because this was my first serenade and my first time being inside of there.”
More than 20 VIP guests attended the serenade ceremony, including former sergeant major of the Marine Corps and good friend of the Amoses, Carlton W. Kent.