by D. Michael Ressler Usmc (Author)
On 11 July 1798, President John Adams signed an Act of Congress that reestablished the United States Marine Corps, which had its origins in the Continental Marines. In addition to a Corps of Marines, the act also authorized " . . . a drum major, a fife major, and 32 drums and fifes." President Adams had no way of knowing that, in addition to creating a fighting force, he also was providing for what would become an extraordinary musical organization. The United States Marine Band, our nation's oldest professional musical organization, is celebrating its 200th anniversary. A look at the band's history shows how this organization developed from its humble beginnings as "32 drums and fifes" to a world-class military band.