9812 Drummer The Commandants Own, Marine Drum and Bugle Corps

• Official Title & Nickname: The United States Marine Drum & Bugle Corps is officially known as "The Commandant’s Own," reflecting their direct reporting relationship to the Commandant of the Marine Corps. • Unit Number 9812: The military unit designation "9812 Drummer" refers to their specific Marine Corps billet code, denoting their unique mission as ceremonial musicians. • Founded in 1934: The Drum & Bugle Corps was established in 1934 to provide musical support for military ceremonies, parades, and official functions in Washington, D.C. • Distinct from "The President’s Own": While frequently confused with the U.S. Marine Band ("The President’s Own"), the Drum & Bugle Corps is a separate unit known for its marching performances rather than concert music. • All Marines, All Musicians: Every member of the Drum & Bugle Corps is a fully trained United States Marine, having completed boot camp and Marine combat training in addition to their musical duties. • Unique Instrumentation: The ensemble is the only active-duty drum and bugle corps in the U.S. Armed Forces, featuring exclusively brass and percussion instruments—no woodwinds. • Scarlet and White Uniforms: Their distinctive scarlet and white uniforms are modeled after those worn by U.S. Marines in the 1800s, setting them apart visually from other military bands. • World-Class Precision: The Drum & Bugle Corps is renowned for its demanding, highly synchronized drill routines, performed at ceremonies such as the famous Friday Evening Parades at Marine Barracks Washington. • Global Ambassadors: The Commandant’s Own has performed across the United States and internationally, representing the Marine Corps at events such as the Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Scotland and the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo in Canada. • Legacy of Excellence: Many alumni of the Drum & Bugle Corps have gone on to distinguished careers in music education, composition, and performance, continuing to influence the world of marching music beyond their Marine service.