The US Navy Ceremonial Band Baton held by the Drum Major is pictured here in a capture by @arlingtonmedia during ceremonial honors. The Navy Ceremonial Band performs music at official military and government functions as well as other special events. Led by the Navy Band drum major, the group’s varied duties include arrival ceremonies at the White House and Pentagon, changes of command, military retirement ceremonies and funerals at Arlington National Cemetery. The ceremonial band also supports the Navy’s mission by providing music for community events around the Washington area. Regularly staffed by approximately sixty musicians who rotate between the Ceremonial and Concert Bands, the Ceremonial Band’s size may vary from 15 to 99 pieces based on mission requirements. The ensemble is routinely augmented with members from other Navy Band performing groups when very large ceremonial bands are required. The Ceremonial Band provides support for more than 1,300 official ceremonies annually. Navy Band drum majors are keenly aware of the centuries of tradition the sash and mace represent. They truly are the leaders and mentors to which the entire band looks for guidance and direction on the command’s top mission priorities. They lead the way.