Perfect Weather; Great Show! Thousands See Soldiers Perform!

FORT MYER, Va. (May 16, 2012) -- Performing under perfect weather conditions before more than two thousand visitors to Joint Base Myer - Henderson Hall Soldiers of the 3d U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard) and The U.S. Army Band "Pershings Own" performed the time-honored tradition of a "Twilight Tattoo" last night.

The U.S. Army Military District of Washington production combines the precision and discipline of Old Guard Soldiers with the orchestral sounds of The U.S. Army Band. This free and open to the public performance is scheduled to entertain thousands more every Wednesday night at Fort Myer during the summer till the end of August.

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.

Check the MDW's Website for details at www.army.mil/mdw