"Salute from the Chief" is the theme for a special Twilight Tattoo hosted by Army Chief of Staff Gen. Raymond T. Odierno on Whipple Field, Joint Base Myer - Henderson Hall beginning at 5 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 11. The U.S. Army Military District of Washington production is free and open to the public and combines the precision and discipline of Old Guard Soldiers with the orchestral sounds of The U.S. Army Band. In case of rain, the show will go on inside Conmy Hall, JBM-HH.
The history of Twilight Tattoo began more than 300 years ago as British troops were summoned from the warmth and hospitality of local pubs by a bugle and drum call to return to the barracks. The familiar tune told tavern owners "doe den tap toe," or "time to turn off the taps." The troops knew the call to mean "taps off," and minutes later they were back in their tents.
The modern-day call is known as "Tattoo" and during basic training the call signals the time to quiet down and hit the bunks. For MDW, the call serves as a tribute dedicated to the vitality of our nation and to the sacrifices of those who forged America into the land of the free and the home of the brave. It is for our forefathers and fellow Americans that MDW proudly presents "Twilight Tattoo."
The MDW Twilight Tattoo can trace its own history back to the years before World War II. Then, on the grounds of Fort Myer in Arlington, Va., the 3rd Cavalry Regiment held military shows during the winter months. MDW revived the traditional show in 1961 to showcase the talents of its ceremonial units.
As Twilight Tattoo grew in popularity, the Army adapted the show, its location and the time of year it was performed to fit the growing needs of the American people. Settling on performances in the nation's capital throughout the summer months, has allowed thousands of audience members to experience the ceremony and pageantry of the United States Army.
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