DRILL AND CEREMONIES MANUAL MARINE CORPS

DRILL AND CEREMONIES MANUAL MARINE CORPS

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INTRODUCTION
One of the cornerstones of Marine Corps customs, courtesies and
traditions is our execution of close order drill and ceremonies.
These traditions are perpetuated from one generation to the next
through constant use and practice. The “esprit de corps” of every
Marine has been brought about by their ever-present feeling of pride,
not only in their unit, but also in themselves. The preservation of
traditional discipline, our customs and courtesies, and the heritage
of our Corps is our duty. It is our further duty to see that the
same high standard of discipline and esprit de corps is not only
preserved, but also further strengthened. These intangibles must be
passed on to the future Marines who will take their place among the
ranks our Corps.

The object of close order drill is to teach Marines by exercise to
obey orders and to do so immediately in the correct way. Close order
drill is one foundation of discipline and esprit de corps.
Additionally, it is still one of the finest methods for developing
confidence and troop leading abilities in our subordinate leaders.
Ceremonial duties are written deep into our history as a Corps. It
is no coincidence that among the units famous for ceremonial prowess
and spit-and-polish are also to be found some of the worlds most
redoubtable fighting formations. The hallmark of the world’s
fighting organizations, the Roman legions, the Spartans, the Foreign
Legion, the British Brigade of Guards and many others is that they
are as good on parade as they are in the field or in the attack.

While we no longer use drill and formations to align the ranks as was
done for the phalanxes of Rome or the squares of Waterloo, drill and
ceremony is still the foundation of instilling and developing
discipline in any size unit and the individual.

The Marine Corps has long enjoyed a worldwide reputation for sharp
appearance and soldierly performance of duties. Our reputation as a
Corps is built upon the legacy of those that came before us and puts
us on par with the finest military organizations in the world’s
history. This reputation has been enhanced by continually
demonstrating that our execution of peacetime functions is excelled
only by our performance in battle.

The special distinction that the Marine Corps has today in regards to
drill and ceremonies is best exemplified by the saying “First on
foot, and right on the line.” This privilege bestowed on the Corps
by the Secretary of the Navy on 9 August 1876, gives Marines the
place of honor in any Naval formation.