What is 8th & I?
It's the nickname for Marine Barracks Washington, named for its corner at 8th and I Streets SE in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1801, it is the oldest post of the Marine Corps and home to the Commandant's house.
Can civilians go to the Marine Barracks Friday Evening Parade?
Yes. The parade is free and open to the public most Fridays from May through August. You need a reservation from the official Marine Barracks website for guaranteed seating, plus ID at the gate.
What's the difference between the Evening Parade and the Sunset Parade?
The Friday Evening Parade happens on the parade deck at the Barracks in Washington and needs a reservation. The Tuesday Sunset Parade is held at the Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington, Virginia, with open seating and no reservation.
What is the Silent Drill Platoon?
It's a platoon of 24 Marines based at 8th & I who perform a precision rifle drill with no spoken commands. Members told us they follow the counts and movements of the Marines around them, and that it takes about six months for the drill to become muscle memory.
What do Marine body bearers do?
Body bearers carry fallen Marines to their final resting place, often at Arlington National Cemetery. They train daily on strength and bearing so they can perform a flawless funeral for every family, even on their worst day.
