21 photos showing the awesomeness of the Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon

The Silent Drill Platoon symbolizes the consummate professionalism and extreme discipline the United States Marine Corps is known for.…
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The Silent Drill Platoon symbolizes the consummate professionalism and extreme discipline the United States Marine Corps is known for.

Photo: Marine Corps Lance Cpl. AaronJames Vinculado

Stationed at the legendary Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., it is a 24-man rifle platoon that tours the country showcasing their precision drill and rifle movements in front of hundreds of thousands of spectators a year.

Photo: Marine Corps Cpl. Dengrier Baez

A highly selective unit, Marines are individually interviewed and picked from the Schools of Infantry at Camp Pendleton and Camp Lejeune.

Photo: Marine Corps Pfc. Richardo Davila

Once selected, each Marine will be assigned to the platoon for two years while more experienced members can audition to become one of two rifle inspectors.

Photo: Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Ezekiel Kitandwe

The drill master, along with the rifle inspectors, are responsible for passing on the traditions, training, and mastery.

Photo: Marine Corps Pfc. Crystal Druery

If you are ever fortunate to witness a live performance, their synchronized movements and individual expert rifle handling skills will leave you in awe.

Photo: Marine Corps Cpl. Tia Dufour

These photos capture moments during their precision performances that show off how awesome they really are.

Photo: Marine Corps Cpl. Octavia Davis
Photo: Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Reina Barnett
Photo: Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Rodion Zabolotniy
Photo: Marine Corps Cpl. Dengrier Baez
Photo: Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Samantha Draughon
Photo: Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Oscar L Olive IV
Photo: Marine Corps Sgt. Chris Stone
Photo: Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Ezekiel Kitandwe
Photo: Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Oscar L Olive IV
Photo: Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Samantha Draughon
Photo: Marine Corps Cpl. Carolyn Pichardo
Photo: Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Ezekiel Kitandwe
Photo: Marine Corps Cpl. Sarah Fiocco
Photo: Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jacqueline Smith
Photo: Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Alejandro Sierras

BONUS: Now watch one of their performances…

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