Silent Drill Platoon

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The Silent Drill Platoon performs in front of the home of the Commandant of the Marine Corps

The United States Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon, a 24-man rifle platoon, performs a unique precision drill exhibition. This highly disciplined platoon exemplifies professionalism associated with the United States Marine Corps.

The Silent Drill Platoon first performed in 1948 and received such an overwhelming response that it soon became part of the routine parades at Marine Barracks, Washington D.C.

The Marines execute a series of calculated drill movements and precise handling of their hand-polished 10 and one-half pound M1 Garand rifles with fixed bayonets. The routine concludes with a unique rifle inspection involving elaborate rifle spins and tosses.

These Marines are individually selected from the Schools of Infantry located in Camp Pendleton, California, and Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, from interviews conducted by barracks personnel. Once selected, Marines are assigned to Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C., to serve a two-year ceremonial tour. Beyond their ceremonial duties, the Marines collaterally train in the field as infantrymen. Throughout the year, these Marines hone their infantry skills at the Marine Corps Combat Development Command, Quantico, Virginia and other bases.

Experienced members of the Silent Drill Platoon have the opportunity to audition to become rifle inspectors. They must go through inspection tryouts graded by rifle inspectors of the previous year. Only two Marines become rifle inspectors.

Once the year's Silent Drill Platoon members are selected, they begin their training at Marine Barracks, Washington D.C., and continue to train at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona. They continually work on perfecting their routine year-round.

Throughout the year, they perform at Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C., and at numerous events across the United States and abroad.