United States Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon visits Pacers

INDIANAPOLIS (April 17, 2012) – The United States Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon, which represents over 60 years of marching and rifle drill precision, will make its only appearance at an NBA game this year on Thursday, April 19, at halftime of the Indiana Pacers game with the Milwaukee Bucks at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. And, the Pacers are rolling out the red carpet for their distinguished guests.

Comprised of highly-trained Marines from the Marine Barracks in Washington, D.C., the Silent Drill Platoon executes it drill sequence without cadence or verbal command. The “M-One” rifles they carry, with fixed bayonets, weigh in excess of 10 ½ pounds. This platoon performs its precision drill in hundreds of public appearances throughout the United States and abroad each year. In addition, they represent the Marine Corps at numerous ceremonies in the National Capital area, honoring visiting dignitaries and heads of state.

The group will be greeted Thursday morning at the Indianapolis Airport General Aviation (Military Air) by Pacers representatives and two Pacemates. The platoon will be treated to a catered dinner on the Pacers practice court after having the opportunity to play pickup basketball on the same court. The group will attend the game and perform at halftime.

“It’s fitting that as we come to the end of this remarkable regular season, we welcome this extraordinary group of Americans with such a historic and fabulous reputation to present to our fans,” said Pacers President Jim Morris. “This Silent Drill Platoon demonstrates the finest in Marine professionalism, esprit de corps and marching precision.”