Headquarters and Service Company

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.
Marine Barracks Washington, D.C.
8th & I

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.

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.

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.

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.

01

Friday Evening Parade

U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Cedric K. Hargrove Jr. marches during a Friday Evening Parade at Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., May 16, 2025. The hosting...

02

Recognizing Marines

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Carrie Batson, commanding officer, Marine Barracks Washington, presents the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal to Lance...

03

Salute to Service

U.S. Marines from Marine Barracks Washington stand as they're recognized at the Washington Nationals game in Washington, D.C., May 7, 2025. The...

04

Motivator of the Week

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Patricia Garciagonzalez, a maintenance electrician with Headquarters and Service Company, Marine Barracks Washington,...