by Cpl. Robert L. Cook
Jan. 42~Sept. 45
From the raising of the colors
To the playing of "Retreat,"
With flourishes and ruffles
Each morning do they greet.
I am thrilled by their precision
As they march so smartly by,
Their uniforms are spotless,
Their horns reflect the sky.
Their drums beat out the rhythm
For every step they make,
There can be no finer
From company to brigade.
Their duties end not in music
For they have a greater span,
For they are still warriors
Like every other man.
When the Corps goes into battle
They take along the band,
They may not be fighting
But they lend a helping hand.
When called upon for service
They are there upon the spot,
Be it runner for the Colonel
Or to help a man who's shot.
When the fight is over
And we have won the day,
They are there for ceremony
Be it sad or be it gay.
So let the band be honored,
To them, let's give a cheer,
For the magic of their music
I'll remember through the years.
* * *
About the author: Robert Cook served with Reg. Weapons Co.(2d-2d) from 1942~44, at Guadalcanal
and Tarawa, during a 33-month overseas tour.
