The U.S. Army Drill Team is a precision drill platoon with the primary mission of showcasing the U.S. Army both nationally and internationally through breathtaking routines with bayonet-tipped 1903 Springfield rifles. The U.S. Army Drill Team performs for military, government, non-profit, and civilian organizations. Through their daring and complex performances the U.S. Army Drill Team acts as “good-will ambassadors” for the Army, supporting community relations and recruiting efforts on behalf of the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and the U.S. Army. Standard U.S. Army Drill Team performances involve 12 - 16 Soldiers and are 8 to 12 minutes in length. For most performances, the space required is approximately 60ft x 80ft with a height requirement of at least 25 ft. The U.S. Army Drill Team also provides what is known as a “soloist” performance. This performance involves two to four of the Drill Team’s senior Soldiers and either the Platoon Leader or the Platoon Sergeant. These smaller “soloist” performances are usually between five and seven minutes, require the same height of 25 ft., but can be done in a 25 ft. by 25 ft. area.
The U.S Army Drill Team performs annually as part of Twilight Tattoo (May through July) and year round at various public events. The U.S. Army Drill Team was organized to concentrate on precise marching and crisp rifle drill. They have supported The Old Guard's ceremonial missions, thrilling millions of youngsters and proud Americans for more than 60 years.
Soldiers are selected for this elite unit after a three week assessment and three additional months of rigorous and competitive drill practice. Trim military bearing, strength, and dexterity are mandatory prerequisites for qualification to the Drill Team. For those selected for the team, the rigors of training never stop. To execute their complicated routines as close to perfection as possible, the team practices constantly. Today’s U.S. Army Drill Team Soldiers and their performances are one of the finest examples of what dedicated training and teamwork produces in today’s Army.
If you are interested in requesting USADT, please complete the attached DD Form 2536 and USADT Form 2536. Email the completed forms to the Military District of Washington Special Events desk at usarmy.mcnair.mdw.mbx.jtfncr-special-events-request@army.mil. Once this request is officially processed, a representative from USADT will reach out to you to begin coordination.