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The 2017 Joint Service Drill Exhibition at the Jefferson
Memorial, Washington, D.C. showcased all five military services drill
teams at one place, which is a rare feat in itself.
Preparation for such a major event takes long hours and many
repetitive rehearsals, something that’s not new to The Old
Guard.
“Leading up to the drill exhibition, we spent
three weeks down at Fort Benning, Ga., training and working
on a new routine,” said Sgt. Wilfriedo Diaz, team leader
with the drill team. “At the end of training we got nothing
but positive feedback.”
That positive feedback was on
display this past weekend.
“We try to prove to the
civilians and the other branches of service drill teams that
we are the best and we lead from the front,” added Diaz.
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April 8, 2017 - The U.S. Army Drill Team from 3d U.S. Infantry
Regiment (The Old Guard), and teams from the other four major
military services, came together to perform during the 2017 Joint
Service Drill Exhibition at the Jefferson Memorial, Washington, D.C.
This exhibition is one of only a few opportunities to see the
service drill teams in the same place at the same time. (U.S. Army
photos by Staff Sgt. Terrance D. Rhodes)
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In the past, this exhibition was once a competition to
showcase each of the branches drill team, but after the Army
continued to win year after year, the powers that be changed
the event into an exhibition, said the New York native.
There were a few minor setbacks from all the services
drill teams during this year’s performance due to the wind
and temperature.
Regardless of the setbacks, the
drill teams were persistent and continue to execute each
movement with precision and accuracy.
“No matter what
happens we continue to try to perfect each move,” said Spc.
Eric Neeley, a thrower for the drill team. “There were a few
mistakes but I think we did a great job anyway.”
The
Soldiers appreciated the cheers and the teams were fueled by
the cheers from the crowd.
“We love the fans,” said
Neeley. “It’s just really great to see everyone here to
support all of the armed services, but especially the Army.”
The U.S Army Drill Team will perform as part of Twilight
Tattoo this summer and Spirit of America later in the fall.
By U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Terrance Rhodes
Provided
through DVIDS
Copyright 2017
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