March 08, 2016

Torres Welcomes "Commandant's Own" to Ontario

ONTARIO, CA – Today, Rep. Norma J. Torres (D-Pomona) presided over the “Celebration of Heroes” Battle Color Ceremony performed by the United States Marine Corps Battle Color Detachment at Chaffey High School in Ontario. Today’s ceremony was part of the Battle Color Detachment’s 2016 National Tour and was free and open to the public.
“The Battle Color Detachment is the public face of the Marine Corps with their skill, discipline, and rich history perfectly embodying the spirit of the Marines,” stated Torres. “As the mother of a veteran, it was an honor and truly humbling to preside over today’s ceremony and to meet the incredibly talented young Marines carrying on this important tradition.”
The Battle Color Detachment is a ceremonial unit from Marine Barracks Washington, consisting of over 100 Marines hand selected for their tour at “The Oldest Post of the Corps.” The Battle Color Ceremony features The United States Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon, The Official Color Guard of the Marine Corps, and The United States Marine Drum & Bugle Corps, commonly referred to as “The Commandant’s Own.”
“It was such a treat to have the Battle Color Detachment perform right here in Ontario,” continued Torres. “They were an impressive reminder to our community of the incredible men and women who sacrifice so much to keep us safe, and I hope that those who were able to witness this performance walked away feeling not only grateful, but proud of those who wear our country’s uniform.”
The Battle Color Ceremony is a unique display of pageantry and precision that is intended to increase morale for Marines and other service members, both former and active, and is used as a recruiting tool for surrounding communities.
Earlier this year, Rep. Torres announced her nominations to the United States service academies, including the Naval Academy where future Marines serve. The academies provide a free education and train commissioned officers for the Armed Forces. Students interested in pursuing a nomination to the service academies in upcoming years are encouraged to visit /services/military-academy-nominations for additional information.
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