They are amazing to hear in a closed room rather than an open stadium... There is a clip on youtube somewhere where they are performing in a high school gymnasium, it is really amazing to hear every thump of the gun as it hits the ground an echoes around
I spent 24 years in the U,S, Marine Corps and never tire watching these Marines. You can bet a few broken rifles went into their training😁 Orlando, Florida USA 👍🏝😎
The Marine Corp., as all of our armed services, trains the individual to act in accordance with the unit. The US Marine Corp. drill platoon take it a much higher and precise level.
I was a US Marine in the early 90’s. I’ve seen these guys so many times I know the routine by heart now. I live in Houston now and was at this performance. It’s the same routine every time at these events, but it kills every time including the hat (called a cover) fall. Close order drill was not my forte but I did love throwing rifles! And yes, this whole thing is a recruitment drive.
@@donniephillips7145 Don't start with the "once a Marine" nonsense. I was a Marine my first four years of active duty, too, and immediately after honorable discharge I went into the Army to continue my active duty for eight more years. I got so sick of the Marine Corps sh*t-talking about how amazing they think they are.
Ok standfast. I just wanted to clarify the "was". I did 11 in the Army and you and I know if you get out "honorable" then you always are a part of whichever branch you were in.
@@donniephillips7145 administrative discharge for setting the Navy record for THC in a single piss test. It was 1993 and the Corps was downsizing so they just said “get out” so the “was” does technically fit.
@@itsahellofaname Marines make it no secret that they shit talk on everyone and thump their chests, yet you still joined? Weren't wise enough to shrug off what your Recruiter was preachin' eh?
Its not always the same. If you look at the video from Gallatin High School, you'll see the beginning is different, and they do the meat grinder with four lines, all four of them spinning their rifles (here it was only three lines, with the center standing still). I think they also adjust the drill for very tight spaces, such as Times Square in NYC.
I was in Fern Creek, KY HS’s MCJROTC back in the 70’s & early 80’s. We threw M14’s back then. We were #1 in Drill and our rifle teams. Great times. He was thinking “crap” when he dropped his cover. You should search for high school ROTC drills. There are a lot of awesome ones out there.
I'm retired USAF, and so in spite of perceived bias, all services have a drill team, and ALL of them are astoundingly good. Think world class athletes, but in "drill and ceremony". BUT, BUT, BUT, the Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon is the absolute ultimate premier US military drill and ceremony team. The other services have teams of about 15-20. But they use voice commands and their choreography highlights INDIVIDUAL talents. For example, USAF has a bit where the Commander stands still while heavy M-1 (maybe M-14) rifles, with bayonets, are tossed all around him by four BLINDFOLDED riflemen. Impressive. BUT, it singles out a group of practiced specialists. But we know that, and are okay with it because it's impressive. The Marines on the other hand, do NOT single out subunits or specialty groups. They march as one. They are a platoon. Although, "the hat", the weapons inspection, and dueling rifle movements appear random, as if ANY Marine in the platoon can perform that complex maneuver, it is in fact staged. In all three situations, it is a specialist that has worked extra hours (many, many) to earn that position. But, instead of showcasing a specific group of specialists, they make it appear as if ANY random Marine may be chosen at random for the 3 "chosen" performances, it's actually well, well, well practiced in advance . These guys are phenomenal and highly respected by all of us, all interservice sibling rivalry aside. None of us can match them.
As a US Marine Corps VET, I have always been so proud. From day one in our very intense Boot Camp, we learn proper Drill; it is drummed into us 24/7 but these guys take it up a few notches. Semper Fi😁
At 8:46 when the guy has finished inspecting the rifle and slings it back to its owner and walks off, he walks away without even pausing to see if the other guy caught it. He KNEW the guy would catch it. That takes a LOT of confidence both in himself and in the other guy. I love watching these guys. I was happy to hear you call them the US Marine CORE. I know it's spelled like CORPSE but the only two people I have ever heard mispronounce it so horribly are a man who was our president a decade or so ago and Gomer Pyle.
Yes, you're spot on. Many future marines have been inspired by this. You were also correct that the marine at10:40 was the commander. He is an officer. You can tell because he wears a black belt instead of a white one and he has gold trim around his hat. Thanks for this wonderful video.
When I went into the Marine Corps, I wanted to be in the Silent Drill Platoon, but wasn't allowed because I was too tall. (They have very specific height requirements, for uniformity and safety reasons)
6:55 No, I think on the inside, he's dreading the chewing out he's gonna get afterwards. Having spent four years in the marching band in high school, I have a *little* insight into how the Silent Drill Platoon does their stuff, as marching bands use similar techniques. It's actually fascinating to watch from that perspective, as you start seeing and hearing the little tells and signals involved. I don't want to give away all their secrets, but one example is with them coming out to the center of the field to start the routine. They *don't* know exactly how many steps to take to reach the stopping point. However, if you listen carefully, you'll hear the platoon leader, starting four steps from the stopping point, call out "Mark Time Mark!", which is a signal to stop moving forward and instead "march in place." The routine itself starts when they do start marking time for those four beats. While the routine itself is done without commands, they do have a few callouts like that to start marking time and marching for the entry and exit. The part that most impresses me remains doing all this without cadence to help keep them in time. Admittedly, part of the routine, with all the places where they clap the rifle or slap a thigh effectively creates a quiet beat they can use to help keep themselves together, but it's still much harder to march to just a beat than a cadence.
i’m on the usmc silent drill platoon and that individual probably didn’t receive as big of a chewing out as you would think! yes of course you don’t want to fuck up like dropping your cover or forgetting the drill but as long as you don’t break bearing and keep moving forward with the drill like nothing ever happened it’s good to go.
@@joshuribe4247 The one that I knew was gonna suck was the one time I saw the rifle inspector flip the rifle back to the rifleman, but flip it too high and it sailed right over his outstretched hand and clattered to the ground behind him. Only time I've ever seen the rifle inspector pretty much stop and turn with the Death Glare on his face...
@@rdfox76 ahahah yeah that’s not really the best thing whenever inspection team drops a rifle but what they do is insanely hard, they just make it look very easy because of the hundreds of hours they put into practicing. dropping a rifle during the inspection will def sign it you up for a few extra hours of practice though and a solid ass chewing!
In high school our band teacher taught us to march military style and to follow very strict guidelines. Band shoes were a specific brand and white. Then they were dyed white when any marks showed up. We all wore white gloves and they couldn't be dirty. The clarinet players were to cut the padding area off the finger part of the glove. Your hair wasn't allowed to touch the collar of your band uniform. You would have to put it in your band hat both m/f. On Veterans Day he would have us line up and have the Military Reserves in our town meet us outside and do a formal inspection of us. The Reservist wouldn't leave until you looked them straight face in the eye. They would pull you if you didn't meet the criteria and if you didn't meet it by parade time you didn't march. Talk about stress 😩
The Marine Corps Silent Drill Team is considered the premiere rifle drill team on the US Armed Forces, but not the only one. The Army’s rifle drill team is impressive, and I believe they sometimes introduce a hint of humor i their routine, so as not to appear so robotic. It is also worthy to add that the US Coast Guard is the only branch who allows women in their rifle drill team.
Back in the 90s my high school was in second place in color guard competitions. Second to an actual military school. For high schoolers, there a very good twirling that 15 lb rifle.
Serious, yes. Above all the beautiful pageantry of the drill, underneath it all they are Marines. I'm an old grandmother and the Marines in my family are still Marines even after separation from service.
As a Marine Corps veteran myself, I really enjoy watching the drill platoon! All Marines can March like that…boot camp has hours and hours of drilling to work up to that type of precision. The difference being, of course, that it’s usually not silent! 😉
As a USMC spouse I had the opportunity to see them live, the band was playing John Phillip Sousa (super patriotic) and they were on a field within sight of the Commandant of the of the Marine Corps home in Washington DC. It was amazing.
I served 13 years active duty in the Corps and had seen a few of the Battle Color Ceremonies as they toured and performed at our bases before parade season in DC. I've been to Washington DC years later as a veteran but missed out on a chance to see either the Evening Parade at 8th & I or the Sunset Parade at the Marine Corps War Memorial while I was there visiting. I now live in our 50th state, but someday I hope to make my way back east just so I can see the Evening Parade live at the "Oldest Post of the Corps."
In 1987 -1988 I was in one of the other Ceremonial Platoons that participated in the Friday Evening Parades at the Barracks and the Sunset Parades at the Marine Corps War Memorial....... It was an Honor.....
Great Reaction...... Christmas 1986 - Halloween 1988 I was Stationed at Marine Barracks 8th & I, and was in one of the other Cermonial platoons at the Barracks. My Roommate from 1987 became an "Inspector" for the Silent Drill Platoon in 1989....... Thank You to all my Fellow Veterans that Served.......
They came to my high school and demonstrated their drill in our gymnasium! They go throughout America to schools, stadiums and other public events. They made me want to join the Marine Corp but since I broke my ankle before I graduated I was afraid to be turned down! I should have just volunteered hindsight is 20/20!
I watched a video of the United States Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon for the first time way back when I was a senior in High School, and it definitely influenced me to enlist in the USMC! Thanks for reacting to this halftime performance. Without a doubt, they put in many hours practicing for their drill exhibitions to the public.
MARCH MADNESS starts next week !! College basketball playoffs ! 64 teams broken down into 4 16 team pods . Loose and your out. Win and move on to the next game... It's awesome and BIG in USA
As far as whenever you're doing drills, you are told to carry on with your drill no matter what. Your platoon sergeant or platoon commander or whoever is leading your detail will assist you.
The silent drill team tours is coordinated with the recruiting command to ensure the greatest potential for recruiting. The same with military flyovers.
There is a video of the Silent Drill Platoon performing in a high school gym. You could hear every step, every hand slap against the leg and when they slammed the butt of the rifle to the floor the gym echoed
This all starts in boot camp for Marines. I spent an hour or two everyday drilling for 3 months while on Parris Island South Carolina as a USMC recruit. 90°+ w 90% humidity during July on a blacktop parade deck. Life doesn't get any better than that. And that doesn't even count the drill as part of movement from one training exercise to the next. You will literally drill while waiting for your turn to get through the chow hall. Hours are spent drilling every day one way or another. As part of recruit training, platoons compete against each other in various endeavors, platoon level drill being one of them. The Drill Instructors are also evaluated on their ability to drill the platoon as part of the competition. The USMC takes drill very seriously especially during different types of training and schools.
I was lucky enough to see them many years ago and like many other things, its 'much' better in person. In that routine, one of the Marines was hit in the face by the butt of the gun when the two Marines were flipping them back and forth to eachother towards the end. You could hear him get hit. It wasn't a love tap. The auditorium had been silent while everyone watched the routine, but at that point you could have heard a pin drop. The Marine in the line-up that was hit didn't move a muscle. Had it not been seen, you would never have known it had happened by looking at him. Myself and so many others dropped our jaws. They do not break formation. Even when they get hit in the face.. While I love our Marines and all the other soldiers out there willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for their military brothers/sisters and the rest of us. "The SDP are definitely impressive."
My oldest brother, a Marine now in heaven guards, the pearly gates of heaven now. How I miss his love of country. Like him, I myself served in the U.S. Army. We both retired, giving faithful service to America and abroad. I'll see you again, Marine. HOORAH DEVIL DOG‼️
Kanira, they have a very strict selection process. Must be male between 5’11 and 6’1 and be within their weight requirements for their height. Once selected they are assigned to Marine Barracks, Washington,DC, to serve a two year ceremonial tour. They also have to train in the field as infantrymen.
Living in Annapolis Area. they have performed at the Naval Academy in the past. its mind boggling to watch. I own a Garand and its a heavy but balanced weapon.
hear me out… i live in indianapolis… the colts were playing in this game and i just happened to travel across the country for that game and got to see this… was cool
Hey Kabir, I see that you enjoy the military and music videos. React to a "Army vs Navy Drumlime 2021" video. It a little friendly competition that they perform during a football game. Its wild. Thanks for putting out all these reaction videos. I enjoy them.
Pay closer attention at the hand off at 9:58-9:59. The Marine in line spinning his rifle spins it to the Marine that passed his rifle to the Marine inspecting them. The Marine inspecting simultaneously sends the rifle he's spinning to the Marine with a rifle. You have to pay close attention to catch it.
That Marine losing his cover just illustrates the discipline and "can do" attitude to carry on with the mission regardless of whatever setback befalls you.
I'm thinking how useful it is to have marines & soldier who can move this quietly & precisely while on the battlefield. And by the way, Marines don't wear hats - they wear, 'covers'. Both my dad & younger brother were marines. I tried joining the army, but was rejected because of my bad health. My 2 older brothers were army & navy, respectively, & my nephew was also navy.
There is a little more appreciation when they perform at a basket ball game with a hard wooden floor. You can here their steps and rifle buts each time they hit the floor.
I was in a colorguard. You count your moves. You are trained to be stoic. When I was in colorguard, we were taught to run over a judge if he got in our way, march through horse manure, I had one kid in my face at an exhibit trying to get me to laugh and a judge pulling on the American Flag trying to get me to move. I broke into a sweat from NOT moving. He was pulling hard. It's training. I had a kid throw a firework under my boot. I just stepped on it because it was in my path and I kept going. Nothing phases you.
Great reaction and hello from Massachusetts in America! I had never seen this before and it is very impressive. Although I haven't agreed with all the decisions of the US government that led to military conflicts in the last couple decades or that we spend more on the defense budget than the next 10 countries combined, I've always been 100% supportive of the men and women who serve in our all volunteer military branches, the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard. 🇺🇸
I was going to add United States and UK flags at the end of my previous post, but UA-cam/Google has removed all flags from the list of emojis, which I find...very "interesting". That little "us" at the end was supposed to be the code for the American flag that I copied from an emoji site, but the site did mention that it would likely appear only as "us" on UA-cam.
1) In The Marine Corps, as in The Navy, it's not a hat, it's called a cover (NOT that I would expect a foreign citizen to know US Military terminology. I just thought you might appreciate the knowledge 2) To even be CONSIDERED for a post on The Silent Drill Platoon, you must be between 5ft 10 inches and 6ft 2 inches (1.77 meters and 1.877 meters respectively), have a truly spotless service record, show an extensive knowledge and expertise with The Manual At Arms (the guide book of how handle your weapon in virtually every conceivable angle, weight distribution, even how to keep possession while an enemy is trying to take it away. You are expected to always have close, personal possession of your weapon at all times) and then be recommended by your squad sergeant to your commanding officer, who in turn must recommend you to the Drill Platoon. This is one of the highest honors a Marine can be awarded and is not one which you, as an individual, can request transfer to. 3) Once there, you can look forward to months upon months of rigorous training for hours every day under direct supervision of a current member, who not only has the power to, but is expected to, kick you unceremoniously off with no room set for appeals (it is due to this, combined with the adage about one bad apple spoiling the whole barrel, that females are not ever put forward to, or accepted by, The Drill Platoon since (sadly) there could conceivably come a time when sexual favors might be demanded in return for remaining under consideration. 3) You are absolutely correct. It takes countless hours of practice and knowing precisely where every member of the platoon is at all times (I have no doubt that the member who was so careless as to strike the cover from his fellow heard from his CO at great length about whether he should remain on the squad is now in question. That bayonet is not just ceremonial. It is expected to remain sharp and in combat readiness at all times, so what you witnessed was not a trivial event
Idk why but it's kinda funny knowing that my military has a dedicated dance crew. "LISTEN UP MARINES, YOU HAVE TO TAKE TWO STEPS, DIP, AND SPIN, THATS AN ORDER!"
Thank you. As a US Army soldier I've always had great respect for the United States Marine Corps. Also, those bayonets are combat ready. They aren't dulled for safety.
The USMC calls a "hat" a cover. My father was a Marine, is a Marine, 1945~1949. Once a Marine, aways a Marine. I am humbled by his service. The USMC owes its roots to the British Navy. It all started there. There is some irony that a Brit is watching this for the first time.
These military demonstrations are recruitment tools. The same is the case for fighter demonstration teams like the NAVY Blue Angels, Air Force Thunderbirds. At pre-game flyovers at sporting events all kinds of aircraft are used. We also have helicopters land at middle schools (ages 5 - 11) and high schools (ages 11 - 18). The NAVY Blue Angels (F-18 - Hornets) and Air Force Thunderbirds (F-16 - Falcons) are also to sell those planes to other nations.
For some reason when you said you'd like more of this, as do I because I'm a frickin Virgo and we love our perfection, I thought of mechanical music machines. There's lots of videos of them, but this one is as good an example as any. Try Incredible Mechanical Music.flv on the Reach Mentor channel. These are always fascinating and I think you'll like it, especially thinking of the precision needed to operate it.
(Former Marine) I was the farthest thing from an "8th & I Marine" ... and the rare dude who lost his cover... that might happen maybe only once a year at most.
Kabir, go watch the Grenadiers colorguard on UA-cam. It's a girl's colorguard. My sister was in the winter guard. We are from Medford, Massachusetts. Go see it. It's impressive.
I have seen the silent drill platoon twice in my life. First time when they came to a plebe summer all hands event at Annapolis in June of 1979. Second time was four years later when I was at Marine Corp Basic Officer Course in 1983. TRUST ME you do not get the full experience over video you HAVE to see them in person. Two things that stood out for me was : #1 ALL of these men or ACTUAL active duty marine. After they have done their tour at 8th & I they get reassigned to and active duty Marine Corp Battalion according to their MOS. #2 Something that was emphasized by my company officer when I saw them the second time was that all the movements and commands that they do ARE NOT proper Marine Corp moments and commands. In other words "DO NOT copy this with you troops when you graduate from the basic school. Because they are done here for the show."
the circle with the rifles out is called the protective circle. if you are in the center of that circle no one will harm you. the Marines are there and will protect you.
Right after the one marine had his cover placed back on his head there had to have been a cut in the video because suddenly their bayonets are no longer fixed. I guess doing all that spinning and catching the rifles with a steel blade on the end of it would be asking a bit much. Still, I'd like to have seen how that transition was accomplished.
They are amazing to hear in a closed room rather than an open stadium... There is a clip on youtube somewhere where they are performing in a high school gymnasium, it is really amazing to hear every thump of the gun as it hits the ground an echoes around
my father was a marine -- he always had that certain walk and stance. miss him a lot thanks for the reaction smiles and love to you
♥️
I spent 24 years in the U,S, Marine Corps and never tire watching these Marines.
You can bet a few broken rifles went into their training😁
Orlando, Florida USA 👍🏝😎
SEMPER FI Brother!!
The Marine Corp., as all of our armed services, trains the individual to act in accordance with the unit. The US Marine Corp. drill platoon take it a much higher and precise level.
I’m the civilian cousin to two marines but I’m a writer funny enough everyone on my dads side is a athlete except for me
*Corps
Once a Marine, Always a Marine!
I was a US Marine in the early 90’s. I’ve seen these guys so many times I know the routine by heart now. I live in Houston now and was at this performance. It’s the same routine every time at these events, but it kills every time including the hat (called a cover) fall. Close order drill was not my forte but I did love throwing rifles! And yes, this whole thing is a recruitment drive.
@@donniephillips7145 Don't start with the "once a Marine" nonsense. I was a Marine my first four years of active duty, too, and immediately after honorable discharge I went into the Army to continue my active duty for eight more years. I got so sick of the Marine Corps sh*t-talking about how amazing they think they are.
Ok standfast. I just wanted to clarify the "was". I did 11 in the Army and you and I know if you get out "honorable" then you always are a part of whichever branch you were in.
@@donniephillips7145 administrative discharge for setting the Navy record for THC in a single piss test. It was 1993 and the Corps was downsizing so they just said “get out” so the “was” does technically fit.
@@itsahellofaname Marines make it no secret that they shit talk on everyone and thump their chests, yet you still joined? Weren't wise enough to shrug off what your Recruiter was preachin' eh?
Its not always the same. If you look at the video from Gallatin High School, you'll see the beginning is different, and they do the meat grinder with four lines, all four of them spinning their rifles (here it was only three lines, with the center standing still). I think they also adjust the drill for very tight spaces, such as Times Square in NYC.
I was in Fern Creek, KY HS’s MCJROTC back in the 70’s & early 80’s. We threw M14’s back then. We were #1 in Drill and our rifle teams. Great times. He was thinking “crap” when he dropped his cover. You should search for high school ROTC drills. There are a lot of awesome ones out there.
High school days are not Corps.
I'm retired USAF, and so in spite of perceived bias, all services have a drill team, and ALL of them are astoundingly good. Think world class athletes, but in "drill and ceremony".
BUT, BUT, BUT, the Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon is the absolute ultimate premier US military drill and ceremony team.
The other services have teams of about 15-20. But they use voice commands and their choreography highlights INDIVIDUAL talents. For example, USAF has a bit where the Commander stands still while heavy M-1 (maybe M-14) rifles, with bayonets, are tossed all around him by four BLINDFOLDED riflemen.
Impressive. BUT, it singles out a group of practiced specialists. But we know that, and are okay with it because it's impressive.
The Marines on the other hand, do NOT single out subunits or specialty groups.
They march as one. They are a platoon.
Although, "the hat", the weapons inspection, and dueling rifle movements appear random, as if ANY Marine in the platoon can perform that complex maneuver, it is in fact staged.
In all three situations, it is a specialist that has worked extra hours (many, many) to earn that position.
But, instead of showcasing a specific group of specialists, they make it appear as if ANY random Marine may be chosen at random for the 3 "chosen" performances, it's actually well, well, well practiced in advance .
These guys are phenomenal and highly respected by all of us, all interservice sibling rivalry aside.
None of us can match them.
As a US Marine Corps VET, I have always been so proud. From day one in our very intense Boot Camp, we learn proper Drill; it is drummed into us 24/7 but these guys take it up a few notches. Semper Fi😁
At 8:46 when the guy has finished inspecting the rifle and slings it back to its owner and walks off, he walks away without even pausing to see if the other guy caught it. He KNEW the guy would catch it. That takes a LOT of confidence both in himself and in the other guy. I love watching these guys. I was happy to hear you call them the US Marine CORE. I know it's spelled like CORPSE but the only two people I have ever heard mispronounce it so horribly are a man who was our president a decade or so ago and Gomer Pyle.
Yes, you're spot on. Many future marines have been inspired by this. You were also correct that the marine at10:40 was the commander. He is an officer. You can tell because he wears a black belt instead of a white one and he has gold trim around his hat. Thanks for this wonderful video.
When I went into the Marine Corps, I wanted to be in the Silent Drill Platoon, but wasn't allowed because I was too tall. (They have very specific height requirements, for uniformity and safety reasons)
Bummer, being female and 6 feet tall, I know your pain.
I’m so glad you’re reacting to this! I think these guys are incredible. They’re so polished and precise.
Thank you to all who have served and are currently serving.
SEMPER FI !
6:55 No, I think on the inside, he's dreading the chewing out he's gonna get afterwards.
Having spent four years in the marching band in high school, I have a *little* insight into how the Silent Drill Platoon does their stuff, as marching bands use similar techniques. It's actually fascinating to watch from that perspective, as you start seeing and hearing the little tells and signals involved. I don't want to give away all their secrets, but one example is with them coming out to the center of the field to start the routine. They *don't* know exactly how many steps to take to reach the stopping point. However, if you listen carefully, you'll hear the platoon leader, starting four steps from the stopping point, call out "Mark Time Mark!", which is a signal to stop moving forward and instead "march in place." The routine itself starts when they do start marking time for those four beats. While the routine itself is done without commands, they do have a few callouts like that to start marking time and marching for the entry and exit.
The part that most impresses me remains doing all this without cadence to help keep them in time. Admittedly, part of the routine, with all the places where they clap the rifle or slap a thigh effectively creates a quiet beat they can use to help keep themselves together, but it's still much harder to march to just a beat than a cadence.
i’m on the usmc silent drill platoon and that individual probably didn’t receive as big of a chewing out as you would think! yes of course you don’t want to fuck up like dropping your cover or forgetting the drill but as long as you don’t break bearing and keep moving forward with the drill like nothing ever happened it’s good to go.
@@joshuribe4247 The one that I knew was gonna suck was the one time I saw the rifle inspector flip the rifle back to the rifleman, but flip it too high and it sailed right over his outstretched hand and clattered to the ground behind him. Only time I've ever seen the rifle inspector pretty much stop and turn with the Death Glare on his face...
@@rdfox76 ahahah yeah that’s not really the best thing whenever inspection team drops a rifle but what they do is insanely hard, they just make it look very easy because of the hundreds of hours they put into practicing. dropping a rifle during the inspection will def sign it you up for a few extra hours of practice though and a solid ass chewing!
You and your rifle become one, your rifle becomes your best friend, you never leave it in the dirt and you always make sure it's clean 👍
In high school our band teacher taught us to march military style and to follow very strict guidelines. Band shoes were a specific brand and white. Then they were dyed white when any marks showed up. We all wore white gloves and they couldn't be dirty. The clarinet players were to cut the padding area off the finger part of the glove. Your hair wasn't allowed to touch the collar of your band uniform. You would have to put it in your band hat both m/f. On Veterans Day he would have us line up and have the Military Reserves in our town meet us outside and do a formal inspection of us. The Reservist wouldn't leave until you looked them straight face in the eye. They would pull you if you didn't meet the criteria and if you didn't meet it by parade time you didn't march. Talk about stress 😩
Thanks for your videos. The war in Ukraine has got me quite depressed, and your videos are very refreshing under these crappy times.
Hugs. I hope you feel better.
The Marine Corps Silent Drill Team is considered the premiere rifle drill team on the US Armed Forces, but not the only one. The Army’s rifle drill team is impressive, and I believe they sometimes introduce a hint of humor i their routine, so as not to appear so robotic. It is also worthy to add that the US Coast Guard is the only branch who allows women in their rifle drill team.
Once a Marine, always a Marine! Simper Fi!
It's better when it's done indoors in a gym you can hear the steps metal clanking
Back in the 90s my high school was in second place in color guard competitions. Second to an actual military school. For high schoolers, there a very good twirling that 15 lb rifle.
No shit? That’s cool
Serious, yes. Above all the beautiful pageantry of the drill, underneath it all they are Marines. I'm an old grandmother and the Marines in my family are still Marines even after separation from service.
I saw this group in Washington DC a long time ago. They were so impressive. Makes me proud. Good reaction Kabir.
As a Marine Corps veteran myself, I really enjoy watching the drill platoon! All Marines can March like that…boot camp has hours and hours of drilling to work up to that type of precision. The difference being, of course, that it’s usually not silent! 😉
Thank you for serving.
As a USMC spouse I had the opportunity to see them live, the band was playing John Phillip Sousa (super patriotic) and they were on a field within sight of the Commandant of the of the Marine Corps home in Washington DC. It was amazing.
I served 13 years active duty in the Corps and had seen a few of the Battle Color Ceremonies as they toured and performed at our bases before parade season in DC. I've been to Washington DC years later as a veteran but missed out on a chance to see either the Evening Parade at 8th & I or the Sunset Parade at the Marine Corps War Memorial while I was there visiting. I now live in our 50th state, but someday I hope to make my way back east just so I can see the Evening Parade live at the "Oldest Post of the Corps."
In 1987 -1988 I was in one of the other Ceremonial Platoons that participated in the Friday Evening Parades at the Barracks and the Sunset Parades at the Marine Corps War Memorial....... It was an Honor.....
Great Reaction......
Christmas 1986 - Halloween 1988 I was Stationed at Marine Barracks 8th & I, and was in one of the other Cermonial platoons at the Barracks. My Roommate from 1987 became an "Inspector" for the Silent Drill Platoon in 1989.......
Thank You to all my Fellow Veterans that Served.......
always loved watching these guys, absolute perfection
I worked for a DoD contractor in the 80s at El Toro and Tustin. The silent drill exam was at Tustin once and I was memorized watching them.
They came to my high school and demonstrated their drill in our gymnasium! They go throughout America to schools, stadiums and other public events. They made me want to join the Marine Corp but since I broke my ankle before I graduated I was afraid to be turned down! I should have just volunteered hindsight is 20/20!
I watched a video of the United States Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon for the first time way back when I was a senior in High School, and it definitely influenced me to enlist in the USMC! Thanks for reacting to this halftime performance. Without a doubt, they put in many hours practicing for their drill exhibitions to the public.
One of my grand sons is a US Marine and I'm extremely proud of him. I never could have gone through basic training like he did.
MARCH MADNESS starts next week !! College basketball playoffs !
64 teams broken down into 4 16 team pods . Loose and your out. Win and move on to the next game...
It's awesome and BIG in USA
Totally disrespectful for people to be on the field before they finished.
As far as whenever you're doing drills, you are told to carry on with your drill no matter what. Your platoon sergeant or platoon commander or whoever is leading your detail will assist you.
“The few...
The proud...
The Marines...”
There are a few of these with the Marines performing in a high school gym. You can really hear everything that is going on.
Incredible!
The silent drill team tours is coordinated with the recruiting command to ensure the greatest potential for recruiting. The same with military flyovers.
There is a video of the Silent Drill Platoon performing in a high school gym. You could hear every step, every hand slap against the leg and when they slammed the butt of the rifle to the floor the gym echoed
THANK YOU! THAT WAS TOTALLY AWESOME!! MUCH RESPECT! 💜
It’s even more impressive when the officer’s hat is sent askew on his head blinding him. He doesn’t miss a step.
This all starts in boot camp for Marines.
I spent an hour or two everyday drilling for 3 months while on Parris Island South Carolina as a USMC recruit. 90°+ w 90% humidity during July on a blacktop parade deck. Life doesn't get any better than that.
And that doesn't even count the drill as part of movement from one training exercise to the next.
You will literally drill while waiting for your turn to get through the chow hall.
Hours are spent drilling every day one way or another.
As part of recruit training, platoons compete against each other in various endeavors, platoon level drill being one of them.
The Drill Instructors are also evaluated on their ability to drill the platoon as part of the competition.
The USMC takes drill very seriously especially during different types of training and schools.
I was lucky enough to see them many years ago and like many other things, its 'much' better in person.
In that routine, one of the Marines was hit in the face by the butt of the gun when the two Marines were flipping them back and forth to eachother towards the end. You could hear him get hit. It wasn't a love tap. The auditorium had been silent while everyone watched the routine, but at that point you could have heard a pin drop. The Marine in the line-up that was hit didn't move a muscle. Had it not been seen, you would never have known it had happened by looking at him. Myself and so many others dropped our jaws. They do not break formation. Even when they get hit in the face..
While I love our Marines and all the other soldiers out there willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for their military brothers/sisters and the rest of us. "The SDP are definitely impressive."
My oldest brother, a Marine now in heaven guards, the pearly gates of heaven now. How I miss his love of country. Like him, I myself served in the U.S. Army. We both retired, giving faithful service to America and abroad. I'll see you again, Marine.
HOORAH DEVIL DOG‼️
Never seen this before! This is badass!
Kanira, they have a very strict selection process. Must be male between 5’11 and 6’1 and be within their weight requirements for their height. Once selected they are assigned to Marine Barracks, Washington,DC, to serve a two year ceremonial tour. They also have to train in the field as infantrymen.
He’s thinking ‘I’m gonna catch hell for that’
Just an FYI there HATS as you called them are called COVER in the USMC and the USN. And this marine drill team practice doing this all day everyday.
Living in Annapolis Area. they have performed at the Naval Academy in the past. its mind boggling to watch. I own a Garand and its a heavy but balanced weapon.
Wow, that is dedication and pride right there. I would not want to get on the wrong side of any one of those guys.
Check out the Marine Corps Body Bearers. There won't be a video like this, but there are many out there regarding their training and what they do.
So neat to see, my dad was a Marine as well :)
It's even better when they perform inside because of the sound their feet and rifles make on a hard floor.
Top Secret Drum Band from Switzerland are excellent
hear me out… i live in indianapolis… the colts were playing in this game and i just happened to travel across the country for that game and got to see this… was cool
All the military branches have a drill team. You should check the others out.
I looooove the Silent Drill Platoon!
So you like the silent drill platoon of the Marine Corps , Try the Marine Drum and Bugle Corps you might like it .
Hey Kabir, I see that you enjoy the military and music videos. React to a "Army vs Navy Drumlime 2021" video. It a little friendly competition that they perform during a football game. Its wild. Thanks for putting out all these reaction videos. I enjoy them.
The first time I saw this unit was almost 50 years ago - as astonishing now as they were then.
Hey this was in Houston Texas.
Pay closer attention at the hand off at 9:58-9:59. The Marine in line spinning his rifle spins it to the Marine that passed his rifle to the Marine inspecting them. The Marine inspecting simultaneously sends the rifle he's spinning to the Marine with a rifle. You have to pay close attention to catch it.
There used to be a lot of units like this around the world. The SDP is one of the few units like this that remain.....You're welcome ;)
In a weird way the hat fall made it better lol
That Marine losing his cover just illustrates the discipline and "can do" attitude to carry on with the mission regardless of whatever setback befalls you.
I can hear my DI, "Hippy Hoppy Mob STOP". I can hear my DI calling cadence.
I'm thinking how useful it is to have marines & soldier who can move this quietly & precisely while on the battlefield. And by the way, Marines don't wear hats - they wear, 'covers'. Both my dad & younger brother were marines. I tried joining the army, but was rejected because of my bad health. My 2 older brothers were army & navy, respectively, & my nephew was also navy.
You NEED to the Silent Drill Platoon at Gallatin High School, it's on a hard wood floor. MUCH better! Please react to it!
The silent U.S. Marine Corp. version of the Haka?
There is a little more appreciation when they perform at a basket ball game with a hard wooden floor. You can here their steps and rifle buts each time they hit the floor.
My son was a Marine Scout sniper. I was in the Navy. I must say, the Marines have the best dress uniform
DO MORE! There's plenty of videos out there!
The hat thing is part of the show I think. I've seen it happen in a few different performances.
I was in a colorguard. You count your moves. You are trained to be stoic. When I was in colorguard, we were taught to run over a judge if he got in our way, march through horse manure, I had one kid in my face at an exhibit trying to get me to laugh and a judge pulling on the American Flag trying to get me to move. I broke into a sweat from NOT moving. He was pulling hard. It's training. I had a kid throw a firework under my boot. I just stepped on it because it was in my path and I kept going. Nothing phases you.
Great reaction and hello from Massachusetts in America! I had never seen this before and it is very impressive. Although I haven't agreed with all the decisions of the US government that led to military conflicts in the last couple decades or that we spend more on the defense budget than the next 10 countries combined, I've always been 100% supportive of the men and women who serve in our all volunteer military branches, the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard. 🇺🇸
I was going to add United States and UK flags at the end of my previous post, but UA-cam/Google has removed all flags from the list of emojis, which I find...very "interesting". That little "us" at the end was supposed to be the code for the American flag that I copied from an emoji site, but the site did mention that it would likely appear only as "us" on UA-cam.
1) In The Marine Corps, as in The Navy, it's not a hat, it's called a cover (NOT that I would expect a foreign citizen to know US Military terminology. I just thought you might appreciate the knowledge
2) To even be CONSIDERED for a post on The Silent Drill Platoon, you must be between 5ft 10 inches and 6ft 2 inches (1.77 meters and 1.877 meters respectively), have a truly spotless service record, show an extensive knowledge and expertise with The Manual At Arms (the guide book of how handle your weapon in virtually every conceivable angle, weight distribution, even how to keep possession while an enemy is trying to take it away. You are expected to always have close, personal possession of your weapon at all times) and then be recommended by your squad sergeant to your commanding officer, who in turn must recommend you to the Drill Platoon. This is one of the highest honors a Marine can be awarded and is not one which you, as an individual, can request transfer to.
3) Once there, you can look forward to months upon months of rigorous training for hours every day under direct supervision of a current member, who not only has the power to, but is expected to, kick you unceremoniously off with no room set for appeals (it is due to this, combined with the adage about one bad apple spoiling the whole barrel, that females are not ever put forward to, or accepted by, The Drill Platoon since (sadly) there could conceivably come a time when sexual favors might be demanded in return for remaining under consideration.
3) You are absolutely correct. It takes countless hours of practice and knowing precisely where every member of the platoon is at all times (I have no doubt that the member who was so careless as to strike the cover from his fellow heard from his CO at great length about whether he should remain on the squad is now in question. That bayonet is not just ceremonial. It is expected to remain sharp and in combat readiness at all times, so what you witnessed was not a trivial event
Actually, for the Marine that lost his cover - he's thinkin "f^&k"! ;)
Great set of K-bars there. The M1's aren't bad either.
Idk why but it's kinda funny knowing that my military has a dedicated dance crew.
"LISTEN UP MARINES, YOU HAVE TO TAKE TWO STEPS, DIP, AND SPIN, THATS AN ORDER!"
Thank you. As a US Army soldier I've always had great respect for the United States Marine Corps. Also, those bayonets are combat ready. They aren't dulled for safety.
The USMC calls a "hat" a cover. My father was a Marine, is a Marine, 1945~1949. Once a Marine, aways a Marine. I am humbled by his service. The USMC owes its roots to the British Navy. It all started there. There is some irony that a Brit is watching this for the first time.
These military demonstrations are recruitment tools. The same is the case for fighter demonstration teams like the NAVY Blue Angels, Air Force Thunderbirds. At pre-game flyovers at sporting events all kinds of aircraft are used. We also have helicopters land at middle schools (ages 5 - 11) and high schools (ages 11 - 18). The NAVY Blue Angels (F-18 - Hornets) and Air Force Thunderbirds (F-16 - Falcons) are also to sell those planes to other nations.
I did drill in high school JROTC and it was fun. Nothing as crisp as this tho. I miss it.
For some reason when you said you'd like more of this, as do I because I'm a frickin Virgo and we love our perfection, I thought of mechanical music machines. There's lots of videos of them, but this one is as good an example as any. Try Incredible Mechanical Music.flv on the Reach Mentor channel. These are always fascinating and I think you'll like it, especially thinking of the precision needed to operate it.
Those rifles weigh 9.5 (4.3 kg) pounds btw.
(Former Marine) I was the farthest thing from an "8th & I Marine" ... and the rare dude who lost his cover... that might happen maybe only once a year at most.
Marines can have facial hair, but it has to be cut & trimmed to certain specifications. I don't know about the silent platoon, though.
Kabir, go watch the Grenadiers colorguard on UA-cam. It's a girl's colorguard. My sister was in the winter guard. We are from Medford, Massachusetts. Go see it. It's impressive.
That dude is gna get his ass handed to him for dropping his hat.
The one that lost his hat was probably thinking, “That’s a little embarrassing”
Want to see some good drill team, check out Goss Rifles Drill Team from New Mexico Military Institute, they have an extremely high level of precision.
I have seen the silent drill platoon twice in my life. First time when they came to a plebe summer all hands event at Annapolis in June of 1979. Second time was four years later when I was at Marine Corp Basic Officer Course in 1983. TRUST ME you do not get the full experience over video you HAVE to see them in person.
Two things that stood out for me was : #1 ALL of these men or ACTUAL active duty marine. After they have done their tour at 8th & I they get reassigned to and active duty Marine Corp Battalion according to their MOS.
#2 Something that was emphasized by my company officer when I saw them the second time was that all the movements and commands that they do ARE NOT proper Marine Corp moments and commands. In other words "DO NOT copy this with you troops when you graduate from the basic school. Because they are done here for the show."
Semper Fidelis!!
He's the commander. He's rocking the sword lol.
That was by design it was part of the show
the circle with the rifles out is called the protective circle. if you are in the center of that circle no one will harm you. the Marines are there and will protect you.
Right after the one marine had his cover placed back on his head there had to have been a cut in the video because suddenly their bayonets are no longer fixed. I guess doing all that spinning and catching the rifles with a steel blade on the end of it would be asking a bit much. Still, I'd like to have seen how that transition was accomplished.
They don't train until they get it right. They train until they can't get it wrong.
The only facial hair allowed in the Marines (at least in 1990) is a neatly trimmed mustache that does not extend past the corner of the mouth.