U.S. Naval Academy Drum & Bugle Corps

History

Flashing swords, brass buttons and drum rolls of a spring parade are just some of the many traditions that have marked 176 years at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis.  Strains of ‘Anchors Aweigh‘ and similar numbers played by the Naval Academy's Drum and Bugle Corps set the cadence for the Brigade of Midshipmen then - just as they do today.

The history of this organization dates from 1914 when the first appearance of the all-midshipman Drum and Bugle Corps was made.  Midshipman R.W. Cary led his 16 members through a baseball game performance between St. John's college of Annapolis and the Naval Academy.  The midshipmen quickly took to the idea of a D&B Corps as evidenced by the fact that the next year and for seven years thereafter, a Corps of approximately 59 men functioned to the delight of all hands.

The succeeding years brought forth bigger and better Corps, each trying to outdo the one before.  In the late '30s, according to one report, "it was an impressive sight to see the Drum and Bugle Corps then known affectionately as ‘The Hell Cats‘ swinging out on the field in full dress with the white cross-belts shining out against the blue of their uniforms, their precision marching and music providing the lift and rhythm to the tired feet of the regiment."

From those humble beginnings, the D&B has grown in size and scope to an ensemble that supports the Brigade of Midshipmen musically in a myriad of ways. Whether on the drill field or the football field, the D&B can be counted on as the pulse of the Brigade, keeping them in step while in formation and inspiring a unique brand of “Beat Army” spirit at sporting events.

From fight songs at the first kickoff to the last strains of “Blue & Gold”, the Corps proudly performs many of the functions of a typical college band, providing pep bands for a number of sports teams at USNA, supporting Brigade pep rallies for marquee events, as well as marching halftime shows at Navy football games. The Corps also serves as a military band for a number of USNA functions, providing martial music and drill for noon meal formation and dress parades. Additionally, the Corps functions as a recruiting and public relations asset for the Naval Academy, presenting patriotic parade and concert performances around the world. All told, the Naval Academy Drum & Bugle Corps performs over 100 times per year in support of the Brigade of Midshipmen.