State Fair of Texas officials report that the United States Drum and Bugle Corps have cancelled their appearance at this year’s annual event. According to a letter issued by Brigadier General David J. Furness, “In compliance with the Under Secretary of Defense written direction, all military support to non-DoD organizations for outreach activities is restricted and military musical and ceremonial units may only perform in the area surrounding their immediate duty stations.”
“The Commandant’s Own,” a title recognizing the special status of the prestigious marching band, celebrated its 50th year at the State Fair of Texas in 2012. The Corps was formed in 1934 to augment the United States Marine Band and today, is comprised by approximately 85 Marine musicians. Every enlisted member is a graduate of Marine Corps recruit training and is disciplined in basic infantry skills.
It was hoped that budget uncertainty wouldn’t affect this crowd favorite from returning to Marine Corps Square, but such is not the case. State Fair officials express deepest thanks to the United States Marines for service to our nation and hope to have the Drum and Bugle Corps back at the 2014 State Fair of Texas.
The 2013 State Fair runs September 27 through October 20.
