U.S. Army Drill Team performs at British Military Tournament

By Staff Sgt Matthew Coffee (The Old Guard)December 12, 2011

U.S. Army Drill Team performs at British Military Tournament
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U.S. Army Drill Team performs at British Military Tournament
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U.S. Army Drill Team performs at British Military Tournament
3 / 5 Show Caption + Hide Caption – The 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), U.S. Army Drill Team perform 'The Fan' maneuver during the Drill Team performance at the British Military Tournament, Dec. 2, 2011. Over 10,000 people attended the performance including Queen Elizabeth I... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL
U.S. Army Drill Team performs at British Military Tournament
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U.S. Army Drill Team performs at British Military Tournament
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The impact of a .30 caliber round fired from a M1903 Springfield rifle is 60,200 pounds per square inch. The impact of a bayonet-tipped M1903 Springfield rifle being tossed through the air by the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), U.S. Army Drill Team at the British Military Tournament in London, England is immeasurable.

The U.S. Army Drill Team was invited to perform at the British Military Tournament at Earls Court in London Dec. 2-4. The British Military Tournament tells the story of the special relationship between the United Kingdom and United States, recreating dramatic episodes in history from the American War of Independence right up to modern day operations in Afghanistan.

"We are honored to represent the United States in the British Military Tournament and celebrate the alliance that we share with the United Kingdom," said Capt. Christopher Miorin, 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard), U.S. Army Drill Team, Commander.

The tournament was sponsored by Boeing and included units from throughout the British military. The Royal Signals Motorcycle Display Team (RSMDT), also known as the White Helmets, is a group of serving soldiers from the Royal Corps of Signals of the British Army, who give public displays of motorcycling skills, acrobatics and stunt riding.

"I couldn't believe some of the things The White Helmets do. I was impressed to say the least," said Sgt. Scott Mitchell, U.S. Army Drill Team.

The tournament performances lasted roughly two and half hours with one performance Friday, two Saturday and two Sunday. Queen Elizabeth II, The Queen of the United Kingdom and all four British Military Services Commander-in-Chief attended the five performances.

"It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience to meet Queen Elizabeth II," said Miorin. "She was the definition of class and a true lady."

The U.S. Army Drill Team performs for military, government, non-profit, and civilian organizations. Through their daring and complex performances the U.S. Army Drill Team acts as "good-will ambassadors" for the Army, supporting community relations and recruiting efforts on behalf of the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and the U.S. Army.

"The team worked very hard in preparation for this trip, and we are very proud to be able to showcase the excellence of the U.S. Army to the people of Great Britain," said Sgt. 1st Class John Beverage, U.S. Army Drill Team, Drill Master.

Related Links:

The British Military Tournament

Joint Force Headquarters National Capital Region and the U.S. Army Military District of Washington

More photos from this event