A trans-Atlantic journey for the U.S Navy Ceremonial Guard
Embarking on their debut voyage to Edinburgh, the United States Navy Ceremonial Guard will perform at our Show for this first time this summer.
Since their inception in 1931, the United States Navy Ceremonial Guard has served as the official emblem of naval tradition and excellence in the heart of the nation's capital.
Synonymous with grace, discipline, and patriotism, they represent the U.S. Navy in State and Presidential ceremonies, international welcomes, and all services for Arlington National Cemetery burials. Their responsibilities at Arlington include the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
We’re excited to welcome the group for their first ever Tattoo performance at our Journeys Show in August. For 84% of the team, this will also mark their first experience travelling away from the United States, and we look forward to sharing our wonderful city of Edinburgh with them.
At their headquarters in Washington, D.C., the unit are currently preparing for their journey to the UK. With daily practice, their focus is to uphold the highest standards of military precision and honour whilst ensuring an amazing display for Tattoo audiences. Ready for every eventuality, the group are also preparing for Scottish weather.
Although we do not normally perform in the rain, we look forward to performing in the Tattoo whatever the weather. To ensure we are prepared, we are constructing two different routines in case of rain. The team practices in the morning and in the afternoon for approximately 1 hour each session. Practices take place at our headquarters in a converted by-plane hangar, so there is plenty of room to toss rifles.
In addition to dual routines, we are also modifying some of our equipment and kit to provide better control of the rifles in the event of rain."
The U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard
The Edinburgh Castle Esplanade presents a unique stage on which to perform, and the unit have made several modifications to their normal performance procedures to ensure that they present the best representation of U.S. Navy Ceremonial Drill.
Ahead of their journey across the North Atlantic, we asked Command Master Chief Deirdre Parker of the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard what she was looking forward to most about the unit’s journey to Edinburgh.
“I am most looking forward to seeing the other acts and experiencing their cultural performances.
I am also honoured to showcase my team and the important work they do in supporting Navy service members, their families, and the nation.”
The U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard
With the countdown to August well underway, the group are about to enter their busy period. The unit will participate in several outreach events across America to support U.S. Navy Week engagements. Arriving in Edinburgh this summer, their Journeys routine is set to be a dramatic display of authentic silent Naval drill and weapon handling. We can’t wait to share it with audiences this August.
Don’t have your Journeys ticket? There still time to book and to see the United States Navy Ceremonial Guard live this August. Tickets are available here, or by phoning +44 (0) 131 225 1188.
02 May 2024