Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C.

Company A

Mission and Role
Company A at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., is entrusted with fulfilling ceremonial duties directed by the Commandant of the Marine Corps and preparing Marines for future roles in the Marine Corps’ operating forces. Their ceremonial responsibilities include Marine Corps funerals at Arlington National Cemetery, joint service ceremonies at sites such as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and both the Sunset and Evening Parades, which are central to the Marine Corps’ public presence in the National Capital Region.

Composition and Structure
Company A consists of infantry Marines hand-selected from the School of Infantry (SOI) based on military appearance, height, and background. Marines serve a two-year tour at the Barracks before rotating to the Operating Forces. Each platoon within Company A is organized to reflect a standard infantry platoon structure, providing a cohesive unit ready for both ceremonial and tactical roles. While stationed at the Barracks, Company A maintains proficiency in infantry skills, undergoing regular field training at Marine Corps Base Quantico to ensure readiness for future operational duties.

Special Units and Opportunities
Company A Marines have opportunities to join specialized ceremonial units such as the Firing Party, Dignified Transfer Teams, and the elite Commandant’s Four Color Guard. Selected Marines may audition for the prestigious Silent Drill Platoon, a unit known worldwide for its silent precision drill exhibitions that exemplify Marine Corps discipline and pride.

Legacy and Representation
The Marines of Company A exemplify the highest standards of the Marine Corps, representing the Corps at events seen by thousands across the National Capital Region and beyond. Their presence at these ceremonies reinforces the Corps’ commitment to honor, tradition, and excellence.

Company B

Mission and Role
Company B at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., plays a dual role in ceremonial and security missions within the National Capital Region. Company B’s ceremonial duties include providing military funeral details at Arlington National Cemetery, conducting full honors arrivals at the Pentagon, participating in the Sunset and Evening Parades, and supporting a variety of joint service and state ceremonies. Additionally, Company B maintains readiness for contingency security missions, ensuring Marines are prepared to safeguard the nation’s capital during times of civil disturbance or heightened security.

Composition and Structure
Like Company A, Company B consists of infantry Marines selected from SOI for their ceremonial tour. After two years at the Barracks, these Marines are rotated to the Operating Forces. Company B Marines are continuously trained in infantry skills through regular field exercises, ensuring they are prepared for both ceremonial and tactical assignments. The structured training environment reinforces the Marines' readiness for security responsibilities within the capital region.

Special Units and Opportunities
Company B includes the Marine Corps Body Bearer Section, an elite unit responsible for solemnly carrying caskets at Marine funerals within the Capitol area and for high-ranking official ceremonies. The Body Bearers undergo rigorous physical and ceremonial training, representing the Marine Corps with unmatched precision, dignity, and respect. Company B Marines may also join the Dover Dignified Transfer Team, providing respectful transport for the fallen at Dover Air Force Base.

Legacy and Representation
Company B upholds the Marine Corps’ commitment to honoring its fallen and protecting the capital. Whether performing in ceremonies or ensuring security readiness, Company B exemplifies the dedication and professionalism expected of United States Marines.

Headquarters and Service (H&S) Company

Mission and Role
Headquarters and Service (H&S) Company at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., provides comprehensive administrative and logistical support essential for the smooth operation of the Barracks and its ceremonial commitments. H&S Company manages personnel, resources, and logistical needs, ensuring that all units within the Barracks are supported in their missions.

Specialized Roles and Ceremonial Support
Beyond its administrative duties, H&S Company is integral to the Barracks’ ceremonial events and public engagements. They coordinate and execute the hosting of the Evening and Sunset Parades, managing all aspects from guest welcoming to parade escort plans. H&S Company also supports the dignified transfer of remains as part of the Dover Dignified Transfer Team, honoring the fallen at Dover Air Force Base. The Hosting Element within H&S Company welcomes and escorts VIP guests, maintaining a distinguished ceremonial atmosphere at all Barracks events.

Support for Ceremonial Roles Across the Barracks
In addition to its core support functions, H&S Company Marines contribute to a range of ceremonial roles alongside Marines from other companies. H&S Marines regularly support:

• Flag Detail: Assisting in raising and lowering the National Ensign and POW/MIA flag each day, and lowering a replica of the original 1801 flag during the Friday Evening Parades.

• Docent Program: Serving as docents to preserve and share the Barracks’ history with visitors, conveying Marine Corps heritage through guided tours and historical insights.

• Dignified Transfer Teams: Participating in dignified transfer ceremonies at Dover Air Force Base, honoring fallen service members.

• Parade Staff and Ceremonial Roles: Marching in parade staffs, providing officers and staff non-commissioned officers for funerals at Arlington National Cemetery, and supporting other assigned ceremonies.

Legacy and Representation
Through its specialized roles, H&S Company is essential to the functionality and legacy of Marine Barracks Washington. From daily support operations to public engagement, H&S Company upholds the Marine Corps’ standards of excellence and tradition.

Guard Company

Mission and Role
Guard Company at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., is dedicated to providing security and protection for government and private property, personnel, and installations. Guard Company maintains a rapid response capability, prepared to act immediately in any security situation as directed by the Commanding Officer. Their security mission is essential to the safety of the Barracks and its personnel.

Specialized Presidential Support
Guard Company also selects and trains Marines for prestigious presidential support assignments, which include:

• Marine Security Company, Camp David: Providing security at the Presidential retreat.

• White House Communications Agency (WHCA): Supporting secure communications for the President and senior government officials.

• White House Sentry Program (WHSP): Serving as sentries at the White House, representing the Marine Corps in one of its most visible posts.

Training and Qualifications
Marines in Guard Company undergo rigorous training and qualifications to meet the demands of their security and ceremonial duties. Their training includes both physical readiness and mental discipline, ensuring they can act effectively in high-stakes security environments. By maintaining these standards, Guard Company ensures the safety of Marine Barracks Washington, its personnel, and visitors.

Legacy and Representation
Through its security mission and presidential support roles, Guard Company upholds Marine Corps standards of discipline and integrity, reinforcing the Corps’ presence in high-profile and mission-critical locations.

The United States Marine Band - "The President's Own"

Mission and Role
Established in 1798, "The President’s Own" United States Marine Band is America’s oldest continuously active professional musical organization. With the unique mission of providing music for the President of the United States and the Commandant of the Marine Corps, the Marine Band has performed for every presidential inauguration since Thomas Jefferson’s in 1801, underscoring its legacy and distinction in American history.

White House Performances and Ceremonies
Appearing at the White House over 200 times annually, the Marine Band plays at state dinners, receptions, and events of national significance. Their performances range from soloists and small ensembles to full concert bands, showcasing a versatile repertoire that honors the nation’s cultural heritage. Additionally, the Marine Band participates in events like the Presidential Inauguration, Arlington National Cemetery honors, and patriotic ceremonies across Washington, D.C.

Concerts, Tours, and Public Engagement
"The President’s Own" extends its mission beyond Washington with an annual concert series and a national tour each fall, a tradition started by John Philip Sousa. These performances celebrate the Marine Corps' musical legacy and promote appreciation for military music nationwide.

Legacy and Representation
As the musical representative of the Marine Corps, the Marine Band preserves historical music traditions while fostering new compositions. Through its performances, recordings, and public engagements, "The President’s Own" continues to bridge the arts and government, showcasing the enduring role of music in American life.

To learn more, visit: https://www.marineband.marines.mil/

The United States Marine Drum & Bugle Corps - "The Commandant's Own"

Mission and Role
Known for its martial and popular music, "The Commandant’s Own" United States Marine Drum & Bugle Corps performs for hundreds of thousands of spectators annually. With over 85 musicians dressed in ceremonial red and white uniforms, the Drum & Bugle Corps exemplifies Marine Corps precision and pageantry.

Performance and Travel
"The Commandant’s Own" performs at Evening Parades and Sunset Parades throughout the summer and travels more than 50,000 miles each year to participate in nearly 500 events across the United States and abroad. Performing as part of the United States Marine Corps Battle Color Detachment alongside the Silent Drill Platoon and the Official Color Guard, the Drum & Bugle Corps brings Marine Corps tradition to audiences worldwide.

Historical Significance and Evolution
Formed in 1934 to support the United States Marine Band, the Drum & Bugle Corps traces its roots back to the field music used on 18th-century battlefields. During World War II, the unit was awarded the scarlet and gold breast cord by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in recognition of its Presidential support role. In the 1950s, the unit was officially designated "The Commandant's Own," underscoring its unique role in Marine Corps ceremonies.

Legacy and Representation
"The Commandant’s Own" represents the Marine Corps through its musical excellence, honoring historical traditions and bringing the Marine Corps' presence to national and international audiences.

To learn more, visit: https://www.drumcorps.marines.mil/