Marines

Unit HomeUnitsCompany BCeremonial Marchers

Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C.

Established in 1801, Marine Barracks Washington, is the "Oldest Post of the Corps" and has been the residence of every commandant of the Marine Corps since 1806. The selection of the site for the Barracks was a matter of personal interest to President Thomas Jefferson, who rode through Washington with Lt. Col. William Ward Burrows, the second commandant of the Marine Corps, in search of a suitable location. The site now occupied was approved due to its proximity to the Washington Navy Yard and because it was within easy marching distance of the Capitol.
8th and I
"The Oldest Post of the Corps"

MISSION

1st, 2nd, and 3rd Platoons are provisional infantry platoons that are responsible for executing a wide variety of ceremonies in the National Capitol Region. Each marcher is hand selected while attending the School of Infantry (SOI). Each Marine is screened and selected primarily on their military appearance, height, and their ability to meet certain background criteria. After the completion of SOI, they report directly to the Marine Barracks where they will generally serve for two years and then rotate to the Operating Forces.

The highest caliber Ceremonial Marchers are selected to perform on firing parties that render honors to the fallen Marines at their funerals. Also, some marchers are chosen to be a part of the Dover Dignified Transfer Teams that transfer the caskets of every Marine killed in action overseas.

Ceremonial Marchers are all infantrymen, therefore they must maintain proficiency in their infantry skills while stationed at the Marine Barracks. The company conducts field training and live-fire exercises throughout the year so that each Marine is well prepared to join the Operating Forces.