Washington, DC--

On September 16th "The Commandant's Own," The United States Marine Drum & Bugle Corps performed a noon time concert for personnel and residents at the Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery in the Foggy Bottom area of Washington, DC. Also known as "the old hilltop" this historic site is home of Old Naval Observatory and residents’ homes of The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs and Secretary of the Navy. This performance marked the first time a concert was held at this location by Marine Musicians since August 20, 1800.

In attendance were both Vice Admiral Adam M. Robinson, Jr., MC, U.S. Navy Surgeon General of the Navy Chief and Force Master Chief Laura A. Martinez, U.S. Navy FORCE MASTER CHIEF, Director, Hospital Corps. Vice Admiral Robinson spoke prior to the concert, paying special tribute to the Marines of “The Commandant's Own," by reflecting on the historic nature of the day's events. "In this special concert for BUMED personnel, I am certain, as in days of old, they will be more than neighborly and provide all of us with their special brand of inspiring music."

The first concert on this hilltop was performed by the United States Marine Band for the newly designated Washington City over 200 years ago. "The Commandant's Own" worked closely with Navy Medicine since January to create a musical 'thank you' for BUMEDs 85th anniversary. The D&B performed a one hour concert to several hundred enthusiastic spectators.

Concluding the afternoon’s program, the Drum & Bugle Corps completed the resonant strains of "Corpsman Up," bringing the concert to a rousing, standing ovation from the audience. Once the applause completed, Force Master Chief Martinez honored Chief Warrant Officer Dix in a special presentation, swearing the Director of "The Commandant's Own" as a United States Navy Hospital Corpsman. This title was given to recognize the efforts of Chief Warrant Officer Dix for his continued role in Navy Medicine and for composing "Corpsman Up," the first piece of music specifically written for the members of those who keep Marines in the fight, U.S. Navy Corpsmen.