Pershing’s Own: The U.S. Army Band History & Mission

Last updated on August 11th, 2026 at 08:51 am

If you’ve ever had the opportunity to see The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” perform in person, you probably walked away impressed. These aren’t simply Soldiers who happen to play musical instruments. They are professional musicians who represent the United States Army at some of the most important military, government, and ceremonial events in our country.

Pershing’s Own has performed for presidents, foreign dignitaries, military leaders, veterans, Soldiers, and everyday Americans. You might see its musicians at Arlington National Cemetery one day, supporting a White House event another day, and performing a public concert shortly thereafter. That’s quite a mission.

In today’s post, I want to take a closer look at Pershing’s Own, including its history, mission, different ensembles, famous performances, Army musicians, and what makes The U.S. Army Band such a unique organization.

Whether you’re a Soldier, veteran, musician, military history buff, or simply someone who appreciates great music, I think you’ll find the story of Pershing’s Own pretty interesting.

What Is Pershing’s Own?

“Pershing’s Own” is the nickname for The United States Army Band, the Army’s premier musical organization. If you’ve never heard of the unit before, don’t think of it as simply another Army band. Pershing’s Own has a unique mission and represents the United States Army at some of the most important military, government, ceremonial, and public events in our country.

The organization provides musical support for military ceremonies, presidential and government functions, official state events, military funerals, public concerts, national celebrations, and many other special occasions. Because of its location near Washington, D.C., Pershing’s Own frequently performs in front of senior military leaders, government officials, foreign dignitaries, veterans, military families, and the American public. In many ways, these Soldiers serve as musical ambassadors for the Army.

When most people hear the words Army band, they probably picture Soldiers marching down the street during a parade while playing traditional military music. Pershing’s Own certainly has the ability to do that, but that’s only a small part of what the organization does. The United States Army Band is made up of several specialized ensembles, each designed to support different types of missions and events.

Depending on the occasion, you might hear Pershing’s Own performing a traditional military march, a classical piece, jazz, patriotic music, popular music, or a contemporary arrangement. The organization includes concert musicians, ceremonial musicians, vocalists, string musicians, jazz musicians, trumpet players, and other highly skilled performers. That variety gives the Army tremendous flexibility because the same organization can support everything from a solemn military funeral to a formal state event or a large public concert.

Another thing worth mentioning is the level of talent required to serve in Pershing’s Own. These aren’t Soldiers who simply enjoy playing music as a hobby. They are professional-level musicians who also serve in the United States Army. Positions are highly competitive, and many members come to the organization with extensive musical education and professional performing experience. They must maintain their musical skills while also meeting the standards and responsibilities that come with wearing the Army uniform.

That’s what makes Pershing’s Own so unique. It’s a military organization, a professional musical organization, and a public representative of the Army all rolled into one. Whether its Soldiers are honoring a fallen veteran at Arlington National Cemetery, supporting the President of the United States, or performing for thousands of Americans at a public concert, the mission is ultimately the same: represent the United States Army with professionalism, pride, and excellence.

Why Is the U.S. Army Band Called Pershing’s Own?

If you’re wondering why The U.S. Army Band is called “Pershing’s Own,” the answer goes all the way back to General of the Armies John J. “Black Jack” Pershing, one of the most famous and influential Army leaders in American history.

Pershing commanded the American Expeditionary Forces during World War I, and while serving in Europe, he had the opportunity to hear some of the outstanding professional military bands from other countries. He was impressed with what he heard and believed the United States Army should have a premier military band capable of performing at that same level—or even better.

Pershing wasn’t looking to create just another Army band. His vision was to establish an elite musical organization that could represent the professionalism, discipline, traditions, and high standards of the United States Army. He wanted a band capable of performing at important military ceremonies, official government functions, and public events while representing the Army in a first-class manner. That vision ultimately led to the creation of The United States Army Band in 1922.

Over time, the organization became known as “Pershing’s Own” in honor of the man who helped make it a reality. Personally, I think the nickname is a perfect fit. Pershing was known for demanding high standards from the Soldiers he led, and more than 100 years later, the band bearing his name continues that tradition of excellence.

Think about some of the places where these Soldiers perform. They might provide musical support at Arlington National Cemetery, participate in a presidential ceremony, perform for senior military leaders or foreign dignitaries, or play before thousands of Americans at a public event. In many cases, they aren’t simply performing music; they are representing the entire United States Army.

That’s a pretty big responsibility, and it’s one reason the name Pershing’s Own still carries so much meaning today. What started as General Pershing’s vision for a world-class Army band has become a military tradition that has lasted for more than a century.

When Was Pershing’s Own Founded?

The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” was organized on January 25, 1922, at Fort Hunt, Virginia. As I mentioned earlier, General John J. Pershing had been impressed by the professional military bands he encountered in Europe during World War I. When he returned home, he wanted the United States Army to have a premier musical organization of its own—one that could represent the Army and the United States at the highest possible level.

From the very beginning, Pershing’s Own wasn’t intended to be just another Army band. The expectations were high, and so were the musical standards. Pershing wanted talented musicians who could compete with the best military bands in the world. The band quickly began building a reputation for professionalism and musical excellence, and before long, Americans outside the military started becoming familiar with The United States Army Band as well.

One of the ways Pershing’s Own reached the American public during its early years was through radio broadcasts. It’s easy to overlook how significant that was because today we can pull out our phones and watch almost any performance we want within seconds.

In the 1920s and 1930s, there was no television in the average home, no internet, no YouTube, and certainly no social media. Radio was one of the primary ways Americans received news and entertainment, and families would literally gather around the radio to listen to their favorite programs.

Pershing’s Own performed on major radio networks and broadcasts, giving people across the country an opportunity to hear The United States Army Band even if they lived hundreds or thousands of miles from Washington, D.C. Someone living in a small town who might never have the opportunity to attend a military ceremony or see the band perform in person could still hear these talented Army musicians from their own living room.

I think this early exposure played an important role in establishing the reputation of Pershing’s Own. The band wasn’t simply providing music for military ceremonies behind the gates of an Army installation. It was becoming a public face of the Army and helping connect the military with the American people. More than 100 years later, that part of the mission continues, even though radio has largely been replaced by websites, social media, online videos, livestreams, and other modern technology.

Where Is Pershing’s Own Located?

Today, The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” is based at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall in Virginia, located just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. If you’re familiar with the National Capital Region, you know this puts the band right in the middle of one of the most important military and government areas in the country.

It’s also a fitting home for an organization whose mission regularly puts its Soldiers in front of senior military leaders, government officials, foreign dignitaries, veterans, and the American public.

The location makes perfect sense when you consider what Pershing’s Own does. Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall is located next to Arlington National Cemetery and only a short distance from the Pentagon, White House, Capitol, and many other important military and government locations.

Since Pershing’s Own frequently provides musical support for military funerals, official ceremonies, presidential events, arrival ceremonies, state functions, and other high-profile events, being stationed in the Washington, D.C., area allows the organization to support these missions on a regular basis.

Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall is also home to another famous Army organization, The 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, better known as “The Old Guard.” Pershing’s Own and The Old Guard frequently work together supporting ceremonial missions throughout the National Capital Region.

Having personally served with The Old Guard earlier in my Army career, I can tell you there is a tremendous amount of preparation and attention to detail that goes into these ceremonies. What the public sees might last only a few minutes, but there can be hours of rehearsals, coordination, inspections, and preparation behind the scenes.

If you’ve ever attended a major Army ceremony, military funeral, presidential event, or other official function in the Washington, D.C., area, there’s a good chance you’ve seen or heard members of Pershing’s Own without even realizing it.

These Soldiers perform in some of the most recognizable locations in America, but regardless of whether they’re playing for the President of the United States or honoring a veteran and their family at Arlington National Cemetery, the expectation is the same: perform the mission professionally and represent the United States Army with pride.

What Does Pershing’s Own Do?

When most people hear the words Army Band, they probably picture Soldiers marching in formation while playing patriotic music at a parade or military ceremony. While Pershing’s Own certainly performs those types of missions, what they actually do goes far beyond simply entertaining people.

The United States Army Band provides musical support for military ceremonies, presidential and government events, official state functions, military funerals, public concerts, Army outreach programs, arrival ceremonies, and many other important events throughout the year.

One of the most solemn responsibilities of Pershing’s Own is supporting military funerals at Arlington National Cemetery. I can’t think of many musical assignments where attention to detail would be more important.

Imagine being responsible for performing during the funeral of a fallen Soldier, veteran, or senior military leader. There is no second take and no opportunity to say, “Let’s try that again.” You have one opportunity to perform your part correctly, while knowing the Soldier’s family and friends may remember that moment for the rest of their lives.

That’s an incredible responsibility, and it requires much more than simply being a talented musician. It requires discipline, composure, professionalism, and an understanding of what that ceremony means to the family.

On another day, those same Soldiers might support a presidential event, welcome a foreign dignitary, perform during a change of command, participate in a major national celebration, or play a public concert in front of thousands of people. That’s one of the things I find so interesting about Pershing’s Own.

The mission can change dramatically from one performance to the next. A formal military funeral requires one type of presence and professionalism, while a large public concert requires something completely different. Regardless of the audience or event, the standard remains extremely high.

Pershing’s Own also plays an important role in Army outreach and public relations. For many Americans, especially those who don’t have a family member serving in the military, seeing an Army band perform might be one of their few personal interactions with Soldiers.

A public concert, community event, or national ceremony gives the Army an opportunity to connect with the American people in a positive way. The Soldiers aren’t just playing music; they’re representing the Army, its history, its traditions, and the men and women who serve.

I also think it’s important to remember that the members of Pershing’s Own are Soldiers first and professional musicians at the same time. They wear the uniform, maintain Army standards, work within a military chain of command, and have responsibilities that come with being assigned to an Army organization.

On top of that, they must maintain an incredibly high level of musical proficiency. You don’t reach this level of musicianship and then stop practicing. These Soldiers continually rehearse, train, and perfect their craft so they’re prepared whenever the mission calls.

That’s what makes the mission of Pershing’s Own so unique. One day they might be helping our nation say goodbye to a fallen Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, and another day they might be performing for the President, entertaining thousands of Americans, or representing the United States overseas. The setting might change, but the goal doesn’t: accomplish the mission, maintain the standard, and represent the United States Army with professionalism and pride.

Pershing’s Own and Arlington National Cemetery

One of the most important and solemn missions performed by The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” is supporting military funerals and memorial ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery. The Army has a long tradition of honoring our fallen Soldiers and veterans, and music has always played an important role in those ceremonies. Members of Pershing’s Own, particularly the Ceremonial Band, help provide the dignity, precision, and military honors that our deceased service members and their families deserve.

If you’ve ever attended a military funeral, you understand how powerful the music can be. There are certain moments when words simply aren’t enough, and I think a military funeral is one of them. Hearing Taps played while standing among the headstones at Arlington National Cemetery is something you don’t easily forget. The music might last only a short time, but the meaning behind it represents generations of military service, sacrifice, and tradition.

Think about the pressure on the musician performing during one of these ceremonies. For that Soldier, it might be one of many funerals or ceremonies they support during their assignment. But for the family standing nearby, there is nothing routine about that day. They are saying goodbye to a husband, wife, father, mother, son, daughter, brother, sister, or close friend. The musical honors provided during the ceremony may become one of the lasting memories that family carries with them for the rest of their lives. There is no second take and no opportunity to do it over. The Soldier has to perform correctly the first time.

That’s one reason I have tremendous respect for Soldiers assigned to ceremonial units. Having served in The Old Guard earlier in my Army career, I learned firsthand how much work goes into making a military ceremony look effortless. The public normally sees the finished product, but behind the scenes there are rehearsals, inspections, uniform preparation, coordination, movement, timing, and countless small details that have to come together. Everyone involved has a specific job, and everyone has to execute that job to standard.

Pershing’s Own works alongside other ceremonial elements in the National Capital Region to make these honors possible. The musicians aren’t there simply to provide background music. They are an important part of the ceremony and the Army’s final tribute to someone who served our country. Every note, movement, and detail contributes to giving that Soldier or veteran the dignity and respect they earned through their service.

I also think this mission is a great example of why Army standards matter even when you’re not in combat. A Soldier doesn’t need to be carrying a rifle or operating in a combat zone for their job to have tremendous importance. At Arlington National Cemetery, professionalism means honoring someone’s lifetime of service and representing the Army in front of a grieving family during one of the most difficult days of their lives.

That’s a responsibility I would never take lightly. Pershing’s Own helps ensure that when our Soldiers and veterans receive their final military honors, those honors are carried out with the professionalism, dignity, and respect they deserve. To me, that’s one of the most meaningful missions any Army organization can perform.

Pershing’s Own During World War II

Something many people probably don’t realize about The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” is that the organization has its own wartime history. Today, most of us associate Pershing’s Own with Washington, D.C., presidential events, military funerals, public concerts, and high-profile ceremonies. But during World War II, the band’s mission took its Soldiers far away from the nation’s capital and into an active theater of war.

During World War II, members of The U.S. Army Band deployed overseas and served in North Africa and Europe. Just like millions of other American service members during that period, these Soldiers left the comforts of home behind and went where the Army needed them. Their primary skill might have been music, but they were still Soldiers serving their country during one of the largest and most destructive wars in history.

The band eventually received campaign participation credit for the Rhineland Campaign, which took place during the final stages of the war in Europe. I think that’s an important part of the Pershing’s Own story because it shows that the organization’s history isn’t limited to ceremonies, parades, and performances back home. The unit became part of the Army’s wartime effort and carried its musical mission overseas.

Military music also served an important purpose during wartime. Soldiers living and fighting thousands of miles from home dealt with stress, exhaustion, uncertainty, separation from their families, and the constant realities of war. Entertainment and music provided Soldiers with a temporary escape from those conditions and helped maintain morale. Even a short performance could give troops an opportunity to relax, laugh, think about home, and enjoy something that felt somewhat normal.

I can only imagine what it must have been like for members of Pershing’s Own during that period. One moment you’re part of a prestigious Army organization performing in the United States, and the next you’re packing your equipment and heading overseas during a world war. It certainly puts a different perspective on what it means to be an Army musician.

This part of the band’s history also reinforces something I’ve mentioned throughout this article: the members of Pershing’s Own are Soldiers as well as musicians. Their mission might be different from an infantryman, tanker, artilleryman, or combat engineer, but they still wear the uniform, serve within the Army, and go where the mission requires them.

More than 80 years later, Pershing’s Own is best known for its ceremonial and musical mission in the National Capital Region. However, its World War II service remains an important chapter in the organization’s history and another reminder that behind the instruments, uniforms, and incredible performances are Soldiers who have been serving our nation for more than a century.

U.S. Army Band Ensembles

One of the things that makes The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” so unique is that it isn’t simply one large Army marching band that performs the same type of music at every event. The organization is actually made up of several specialized ensembles, each with its own mission, musical style, and capabilities. This allows Pershing’s Own to support an incredible variety of military ceremonies, government functions, public concerts, and special events.

Depending on the mission, you might hear a traditional concert band one day, a jazz ensemble the next, and a string ensemble, chorus, brass group, or contemporary band at another event. That’s a pretty impressive range of musical capability under one Army organization. It also makes sense when you consider the variety of missions Pershing’s Own supports throughout the year. The type of music appropriate for a military funeral at Arlington National Cemetery probably isn’t what you would play at a large public concert or contemporary Army outreach event.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the best-known U.S. Army Band ensembles and what each one brings to Pershing’s Own.

The U.S. Army Concert Band

The U.S. Army Concert Band is one of the premier performing elements of Pershing’s Own and showcases just how talented Army musicians can be. The ensemble performs traditional concert band literature, orchestral transcriptions, military music, contemporary works, and other challenging pieces that require musicians performing at an extremely high level.

Over the years, the Concert Band has performed for audiences at prestigious venues and major events while representing the United States Army through public performances. These aren’t your typical high school or community band performances. The musicians serving in this organization are professional-level performers, and the musical standards are extremely high.

If you’re a serious concert musician looking at the Army as a career, I would consider an opportunity to perform with Pershing’s Own about as high-level as military music gets. You’re serving your country while performing alongside some incredibly talented musicians and representing the Army in front of audiences who might otherwise have very little interaction with Soldiers.

The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band

The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band performs some of the most visible, important, and solemn missions within Pershing’s Own. Its Soldiers regularly provide musical support for military funerals, wreath-laying ceremonies, arrival ceremonies, state functions, retirement ceremonies, and other official events throughout the National Capital Region.

This is where musical excellence and military precision come together. Being an outstanding musician isn’t enough. These Soldiers also need to understand military customs and courtesies, drill and ceremony, uniform standards, formations, timing, protocol, and all the little details that go into conducting a professional military ceremony.

As I mentioned earlier, there isn’t much room for error when you’re supporting a military funeral at Arlington National Cemetery or an official ceremony involving senior military and government leaders. Everything needs to look right, sound right, and happen at exactly the right time. That takes practice, discipline, teamwork, and an incredible amount of attention to detail.

The U.S. Army Herald Trumpets

The U.S. Army Herald Trumpets might be one of the most recognizable groups within Pershing’s Own, even if many Americans don’t know the ensemble by name. They serve as the official fanfare ensemble for the President of the United States and regularly support presidential events, visiting foreign dignitaries, official ceremonies, and other major government functions.

You’ve probably seen them on television at some point. When you see musicians holding those long ceremonial trumpets decorated with banners during a major presidential or national event, there’s a good chance you’re looking at members of The U.S. Army Herald Trumpets.

Think about the level of professionalism required for that mission. You could be performing in front of the President, senior military leaders, foreign heads of state, thousands of people in attendance, and potentially millions more watching on television. That’s a lot of pressure, but it’s also an incredible opportunity to represent the United States Army on a national and sometimes international stage.

The U.S. Army Blues

If you enjoy jazz and big-band music, you’ll probably appreciate The U.S. Army Blues. This ensemble carries on the Army’s long tradition of jazz music and gives Pershing’s Own another completely different musical capability.

The Army Blues performs jazz and big-band music for military audiences, public events, concerts, and other special occasions. I like this ensemble because it shows another side of Army music that many people probably don’t think about. When someone says “Army Band,” most people immediately picture military marches and patriotic songs. There’s certainly plenty of that, but Army musicians are capable of much more.

Jazz also has an important place in American musical history, so it makes sense for the Army’s premier musical organization to maintain that tradition. Plus, let’s face it, you can’t play marches all day long.

The U.S. Army Strings

The U.S. Army Strings provide Pershing’s Own with another unique musical capability. Rather than relying on traditional band instruments, this ensemble features professional string musicians who can perform classical, ceremonial, and contemporary music for a variety of official and public events.

Think about a formal reception, state function, diplomatic event, or other occasion where bringing in a full military concert band wouldn’t necessarily fit the atmosphere. A professional string ensemble can provide exactly the type of music required for that setting while still representing the United States Army.

I think the Army Strings are another great example of how diverse Pershing’s Own really is. The organization isn’t built around one style of music. It maintains different capabilities so it can provide the right type of musical support for whatever mission comes along.

The U.S. Army Chorus

The U.S. Army Chorus adds professional vocal music to the capabilities of Pershing’s Own. While much of military music is naturally associated with instruments, the human voice can bring an entirely different emotional element to a ceremony, patriotic event, memorial, or public performance.

The chorus supports important military and government functions and performs alongside other elements of The United States Army Band. Combining professional vocalists with the instrumental musicians of Pershing’s Own gives the organization even more flexibility when planning major performances.

Anyone who has heard a powerful patriotic song performed live by professional vocalists understands the impact it can have. Music already creates emotion, but sometimes adding voices takes that experience to another level.

Downrange

Downrange represents the more contemporary side of Pershing’s Own. Rather than focusing primarily on traditional military or classical music, this ensemble performs popular and contemporary styles designed to connect with Soldiers and modern audiences.

Downrange has performed for Soldiers and other audiences both in the United States and overseas. This type of ensemble can be especially valuable for troop entertainment, Army outreach, recruiting-related events, and public performances where a more modern style of music fits the audience.

I think Downrange is also a good reminder that Army music continues to evolve. The Army respects its traditions, and I believe it should, but that doesn’t mean everything has to stay frozen in time. Today’s Soldiers listen to many different styles of music, and an organization such as Pershing’s Own needs the flexibility to connect with different generations and audiences.

The U.S. Army Brass Quintet

The U.S. Army Brass Quintet provides a smaller and extremely versatile musical capability within Pershing’s Own. Because it requires fewer musicians than a full concert or ceremonial band, the quintet can perform in locations and at events where bringing a much larger group simply wouldn’t be practical.

That’s one of the advantages of having several specialized ensembles. Not every mission requires 40 or 50 musicians. Sometimes a smaller group is exactly what the event needs, whether it’s a formal ceremony, reception, educational program, or public performance.

But don’t let the smaller size fool you. You’re still talking about musicians serving in the Army’s premier musical organization. The expectations don’t change simply because there are fewer people on stage. These are professional musicians performing at an extremely high level while representing the United States Army.

When you look at all these ensembles together, you begin to appreciate just how versatile Pershing’s Own really is. From military funerals and presidential ceremonies to jazz concerts, contemporary music, formal receptions, and major public performances, The United States Army Band has a musical element capable of supporting an incredible variety of missions. That’s one of the things that has helped keep the organization relevant and successful for more than 100 years.

How Do You Join Pershing’s Own?

One of the most common questions people have about The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” is how someone actually gets selected to serve in the organization. If you’re an accomplished musician and you’ve ever thought about combining your musical career with military service, Pershing’s Own represents one of the most prestigious opportunities available in the Army.

The first thing to understand is that you don’t simply join the Army, tell your recruiter you played trumpet in high school, and receive orders assigning you to Pershing’s Own. It doesn’t work that way. Positions within The United States Army Band are highly competitive, and musicians generally compete through an audition process for specific vacancies within the organization.

And when I say competitive, I mean competitive.

You’re potentially auditioning against musicians who have spent much of their lives mastering their instrument or vocal specialty. Many candidates have extensive formal musical education, professional performing experience, bachelor’s or master’s degrees in music, and years of specialized training. Some may already have experience performing with professional orchestras, ensembles, bands, or other musical organizations.

The audition process helps ensure that Pershing’s Own maintains the incredibly high musical standards required by its mission. Remember, these Soldiers might perform at a presidential event, military funeral at Arlington National Cemetery, official state function, major national ceremony, or concert in front of thousands of people. The Army can’t simply hope someone is good enough when the time comes. The musician needs to demonstrate that ability before being selected.

That’s something I don’t think many civilians—and probably quite a few Soldiers—realize about professional Army musicians. At this level, we’re talking about people who have the talent and experience to pursue professional music careers outside the military. Instead, they choose to combine that talent with service in the United States Army.

Of course, musical talent is only part of the equation. Once selected and serving, you’re still wearing the Army uniform. You become part of a military organization with standards, leadership, responsibilities, schedules, training requirements, and a chain of command. You aren’t simply a civilian musician who happens to perform for the Army; you’re a Soldier whose military profession happens to be music.

If you’re seriously interested in joining Pershing’s Own, my advice would be to start by reviewing the current vacancies and audition requirements published by The United States Army Band. Positions and requirements can change, so always work from the latest official information rather than relying on an old article or forum post.

Most importantly, be realistic about the standard you’re trying to reach. Pershing’s Own is the Army’s premier musical organization, so the competition should be expected to reflect that. If you have the talent, experience, discipline, and desire to serve, however, earning a position with The United States Army Band would be one heck of an accomplishment and a pretty unique way to serve your country.

What Army MOS Do Pershing’s Own Musicians Have?

If you’re interested in joining The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own,” you might be wondering what Military Occupational Specialty, or MOS, these Soldiers have. Army musicians serve within the Army’s professional music career field, although Pershing’s Own has unique positions and selection requirements because of its premier status.

Most Soldiers familiar with Army music have probably heard of MOS 42R, Army Musician. Army musicians perform on specific instruments or in specialized musical roles while supporting ceremonies, concerts, official events, troop functions, community outreach, and other Army missions. Depending on the Soldier’s specialty and assignment, that could mean playing anything from trumpet, trombone, or percussion to guitar, keyboard, woodwinds, or other instruments.

Pershing’s Own is somewhat unique because you’re talking about the Army’s premier musical organization. The musicians serving there aren’t simply people who enjoy playing an instrument. They are highly accomplished professionals who have successfully competed for positions within the organization. In many cases, they have years of advanced training, formal music education, and professional performance experience before they ever put on the Army uniform.

The Army music career field also includes warrant officer bandmasters, who provide professional musical leadership, technical expertise, training, and management within Army bands. For an experienced Army musician interested in progressing into a senior leadership and technical role, the warrant officer route is another career path worth researching.

I think Army music is one of those career fields many people overlook when they’re considering military service. Most people walk into a recruiter’s office thinking about jobs such as infantry, aviation, intelligence, logistics, medical, or military police. Very few probably walk in thinking, “I want to become a professional Army musician.”

But it’s a legitimate military profession and, at the Pershing’s Own level, an extremely competitive one.

Think about it this way: you can potentially earn a living doing what you love, serve your country, perform at some incredible events, and be part of more than 100 years of Army musical tradition. That’s a pretty unique career opportunity.

If you’re serious about becoming an Army musician, I’d recommend researching the current Army music career field, talking with the appropriate Army music or recruiting personnel, and reviewing the specific audition requirements for the organization you’re interested in. If Pershing’s Own is your ultimate goal, understand upfront that the standard is high—but that’s exactly what you should expect from the premier musical organization of the United States Army.

Famous Pershing’s Own Performances

When an Army organization has been around for more than 100 years, it’s going to accumulate quite a history. The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” is no exception. Since its founding in 1922, the organization has performed at countless military ceremonies, presidential events, state functions, national celebrations, funerals, parades, and other historic occasions.

One of the things I find most interesting about Pershing’s Own is just how often these Soldiers have had a front-row seat to American history. Over the years, the band has supported presidential inaugurations, official visits by foreign dignitaries, state funerals, national celebrations, major military ceremonies, victory celebrations, and other important government events. Many of these occasions were watched by millions of Americans on television and, in more recent years, online.

One particularly solemn example was the state funeral of President John F. Kennedy in 1963. Following his assassination, the nation came together to mourn, and military ceremonial units played an important role in honoring the fallen Commander in Chief. Pershing’s Own provided musical support as part of those historic events. When you go back and watch footage from that period, you’re not simply watching a military ceremony; you’re watching one of the most significant moments in modern American history.

Pershing’s Own has also supported presidential inaugural activities for generations. Regardless of which political party occupies the White House, the Army’s role remains the same: accomplish the assigned mission professionally and represent the United States military with dignity. I think that’s an important distinction. These aren’t political performances. They’re military duties carried out in support of our nation’s traditions and institutions.

The band has also performed during major national celebrations and events recognizing America’s military service members and veterans. Some performances are joyful celebrations, while others are incredibly solemn. One day, Pershing’s Own might be helping the country celebrate an important national milestone, while another mission could involve honoring someone who has passed away. That ability to perform appropriately in completely different environments is part of what makes the organization so unique.

Think about that for a moment. When you’re watching television footage of a presidential inauguration, state funeral, military parade, or another major national event, it’s easy to focus on the president, senior military leaders, foreign dignitaries, or other famous people standing in the foreground. But take a closer look at the Soldiers supporting the ceremony. The musicians you hear in the background aren’t simply there to provide entertainment. They’re part of the ceremony itself.

That’s one of the things I believe makes serving in Pershing’s Own such a unique Army assignment. Most Soldiers will never perform their military duties in front of presidents, foreign leaders, or millions of television viewers. Members of The United States Army Band might do exactly that throughout their careers.

Years later, those Soldiers can look back at photographs or historic footage and say, “I was there.” They weren’t simply watching history happen on television. They were wearing the Army uniform, performing their assigned mission, and playing a small but meaningful role in the event itself.

For more than a century, Pershing’s Own has provided the musical backdrop to some of America’s most important moments. I suspect that will continue for many generations to come.

Pershing’s Own and Presidential Events

Because The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” is based in the National Capital Region, its Soldiers regularly support presidential ceremonies and other important government events in and around Washington, D.C. This has been part of the organization’s mission for generations, and it puts these Army musicians in some pretty unique situations that most Soldiers will never experience during their military careers.

One of the most recognizable elements involved in these missions is The U.S. Army Herald Trumpets, which serves as the official fanfare ensemble for the President of the United States. If you’ve watched a presidential ceremony, state arrival, or another major event involving senior government officials or foreign dignitaries, you may have seen these Soldiers performing with their long ceremonial trumpets and distinctive banners. Even if you didn’t know their name at the time, there’s a good chance you’ve seen or heard them on television.

Pershing’s Own also supports presidential inaugurations, official arrival ceremonies, state functions, White House events, visits from foreign leaders, and other government ceremonies where military musical honors are required. These events can involve an incredible amount of coordination and attention to detail. When you’re supporting the President of the United States or welcoming the leader of another country, everything from the timing to the music to the military movements must be executed correctly.

I think it’s also important to make one thing very clear: this isn’t a political mission. It’s a military mission. Pershing’s Own has supported presidents and administrations from both major political parties for generations. Soldiers don’t get to pick and choose which Commander in Chief they support based on their personal political beliefs. They wear the uniform, follow lawful orders, accomplish the mission, and represent the United States Army professionally.

That’s something I think civilians don’t always understand about military service. You can have your own personal opinions, just like every other American, but when you’re performing an official military duty, the mission comes first. The Soldiers of Pershing’s Own aren’t there to endorse a politician or political party. They’re there to provide the appropriate military honors and support the official traditions and institutions of our government.

There’s also a tremendous amount of responsibility that comes with these assignments. Imagine performing during a presidential inauguration or state arrival ceremony while thousands of people are watching in person and millions more could be watching on television or online. You can’t stop the ceremony because someone played the wrong note or missed their cue. Everyone has to know their job and execute it correctly the first time.

To me, these presidential missions are another great example of what makes Pershing’s Own so unique. These Soldiers aren’t simply providing music; they’re participating in traditions that have been part of our nation’s government and military for generations. Regardless of who occupies the White House, Pershing’s Own continues doing what it has done for more than a century: representing the United States Army with professionalism, precision, and pride.

Pershing’s Own and The Old Guard

If you’ve spent any time around Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Arlington National Cemetery, or the Washington, D.C., military community, you’re probably familiar with another famous Army organization: The 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, better known as “The Old Guard.” Pershing’s Own and The Old Guard are two separate Army organizations with very different specialties, but their missions frequently bring them together for ceremonial events throughout the National Capital Region.

The Old Guard serves as the Army’s official ceremonial unit and escort to the President. Its Soldiers support military funerals at Arlington National Cemetery, presidential events, arrival ceremonies, wreath-laying ceremonies, retirement ceremonies, and many other high-profile missions. Pershing’s Own provides the professional musical support required for many of those same events. Put the two organizations together and you have Soldiers responsible for both the ceremonial and musical pieces of some of the Army’s most important public missions.

This section is a little personal for me because I served with The Old Guard earlier in my Army career. It was a unique assignment, and it gave me a much better appreciation for what goes into conducting a first-class military ceremony. What the public sees might last 20 minutes, but there can be hours of rehearsals, inspections, coordination, uniform preparation, and practice behind the scenes. Every Soldier has a specific responsibility, and everyone needs to be in the right place at exactly the right time.

That’s one thing Pershing’s Own and The Old Guard definitely have in common: attention to detail. When you’re representing the United States Army in front of the President, senior military leaders, foreign dignitaries, veterans, Gold Star Families, or the American public, “good enough” isn’t good enough. Your uniform needs to be right. Your movements need to be right. Your timing needs to be right. And, in the case of Pershing’s Own, the music needs to be right.

The two organizations also come together for larger Army productions and public events, including Twilight Tattoo. These types of performances combine Army music, military drill and ceremony, historical storytelling, and demonstrations designed to showcase the history and traditions of the United States Army. For the audience, it’s an entertaining show. For the Soldiers performing it, it’s another mission that requires plenty of practice and coordination before anyone ever takes the field.

Having served in a ceremonial unit, I also learned that one of the biggest challenges is making something difficult look easy. When a ceremony is done correctly, the average person watching probably doesn’t think much about all the moving pieces involved. Everything simply happens when it’s supposed to happen. That’s actually a sign that the Soldiers involved did their jobs well.

I have a lot of respect for both organizations. Their missions are different from what many Soldiers experience in a traditional line unit, but they’re still important Army missions. Pershing’s Own provides the music, The Old Guard provides much of the ceremonial support, and together they help represent the United States Army at some of the most important military and national events in our country.

Pershing’s Own and Twilight Tattoo

If you want to see The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” doing what it does best, one event worth checking out is Twilight Tattoo. This Army production combines professional military music, precision drill and ceremony, historical interpretation, and Soldier performances to tell the story of the United States Army and the men and women who have served throughout its history.

Twilight Tattoo isn’t simply an Army band concert. It’s more of a military history presentation brought to life. The music and ceremonial performances help take the audience through different periods of Army history while showcasing some of the traditions that have been passed down from one generation of Soldiers to the next. For someone who enjoys military history, Army traditions, or simply watching Soldiers perform at a high level, there’s a lot to appreciate.

Pershing’s Own performs alongside Soldiers from The 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment “The Old Guard,” bringing together two of the Army’s best-known ceremonial organizations. The Old Guard provides much of the precision drill and ceremonial element, while Pershing’s Own provides the professional music that helps bring the entire performance together. When you combine the two, you get a pretty impressive display of Army history, discipline, teamwork, and tradition.

One thing I think makes Twilight Tattoo special is that it gives civilians a chance to experience parts of Army culture they might not normally see. Most Americans will never attend a military change of command, spend time around a ceremonial unit, or see the amount of precision that goes into formal Army drill and ceremony. Twilight Tattoo puts many of those elements together in a format designed for the public.

And don’t let the word “ceremonial” make you think it’s boring. There is a lot going on during the performance, and the combination of music, uniforms, historical storytelling, and precision military movements keeps things interesting. It’s also a great way for parents to introduce their kids to Army history and military service without sitting them down for a two-hour history lecture.

Having served with The Old Guard earlier in my Army career, I also have an appreciation for what the audience doesn’t see. A performance like Twilight Tattoo doesn’t just happen. There are rehearsals, uniform inspections, equipment preparation, coordination between different organizations, and countless hours of practice before the Soldiers ever perform in front of the public. The goal is to make everything look effortless, but there is a tremendous amount of work happening behind the scenes.

That’s also where Pershing’s Own really shines. The musicians have to coordinate their performances with everything else happening on the field. Timing matters. Precision matters. One element has to flow into the next, and everyone involved needs to know exactly where they’re supposed to be and what they’re supposed to be doing.

If you’re planning a trip to the Washington, D.C., or Northern Virginia area and Twilight Tattoo is being performed during your visit, I’d definitely consider adding it to your schedule. Check the Army’s current schedule beforehand because dates, locations, and availability can change.

For Soldiers and veterans, it’s a great reminder of the traditions we’re part of. For civilians, it’s an opportunity to see another side of the Army that they might never experience otherwise. And for military history buffs, it’s simply a fun way to watch Army history come alive.

If you’ve never seen Pershing’s Own and The Old Guard perform together, Twilight Tattoo is probably one of the best opportunities to do it.

Famous Musicians Who Served in The U.S. Army Band

When an organization has been around for more than 100 years and recruits professional-level musicians, it’s no surprise that The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” has had some incredibly talented people pass through its ranks. Over the years, members associated with Pershing’s Own have gone on to successful careers in music, entertainment, broadcasting, and other professions.

One well-known former member was Charles Osgood, who later became a familiar voice and face to millions of Americans through his long career in radio and television, including his work with CBS. During his Army service in the 1950s, Osgood performed with The United States Army Band and worked as an announcer. That’s a pretty interesting chapter in the career of someone who would eventually become one of America’s best-known broadcasters.

Another notable musician associated with Pershing’s Own was George Shirley, an accomplished tenor who went on to have an impressive career in opera. Shirley became the first African American tenor to perform a leading role at New York’s Metropolitan Opera and later became a respected music educator. Before achieving those accomplishments, he served as a Soldier and musician with The United States Army Band.

Pershing’s Own has also included musicians who built successful careers as professional performers, composers, conductors, and educators. In many cases, the names might not be familiar to the average American, but within the professional music community, these Soldiers have accomplished some pretty impressive things.

That’s not surprising when you consider the type of people Pershing’s Own attracts. These aren’t musicians who simply played an instrument for a few years and decided to give the Army Band a try. Many arrive with extensive formal education, years of private instruction, professional performing experience, and thousands of hours invested in mastering their craft. Some could—and do—compete successfully for professional music opportunities outside the military.

I think that’s something worth emphasizing because people sometimes underestimate what it means to be an Army musician. Playing music professionally is their military job, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. These Soldiers rehearse, train, perform, prepare for missions, work within a chain of command, maintain military standards, and continually improve their musical abilities. Just like Soldiers in other career fields, they are expected to know their profession and perform when called upon.

The difference is that their performance might take place in front of the President of the United States, a foreign head of state, thousands of concertgoers, or a grieving military family at Arlington National Cemetery. That requires a combination of talent, discipline, composure, and professionalism that very few musicians will ever experience.

To me, the successful musicians and professionals who have served with Pershing’s Own reinforce an important point I’ve made throughout this article: Army music is a profession, and Pershing’s Own represents the highest level of that profession within the United States Army. The uniform might be different from what you normally picture when you think about an Army career, but the commitment to mastering your craft and accomplishing the mission is exactly the same.

Who Commands Pershing’s Own?

Like other Army organizations, The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” has a military chain of command responsible for accomplishing the mission, maintaining standards, and taking care of its Soldiers. The organization is commanded by an Army Colonel, which should give you some perspective on the size, importance, and level of responsibility associated with the unit.

One thing people outside the military might not realize is that commanding Pershing’s Own involves much more than simply standing in front of musicians and conducting a performance. This is still an Army organization. The commander is responsible for leadership, personnel, training, readiness, discipline, administration, standards, and accomplishing the unit’s assigned missions. Just like other Army commanders, the individual in charge is ultimately responsible for what the organization does—or fails to do.

Behind every public performance is also a tremendous amount of planning and coordination. Soldiers have to be scheduled, rehearsals conducted, equipment maintained and transported, uniforms prepared, missions coordinated, and countless administrative requirements completed. When Pershing’s Own supports a presidential event, military funeral, public concert, or major national ceremony, someone has to make sure all the moving pieces come together at the right place and time.

I think that’s one of the most interesting things about Army music that many people never see. The audience sees the finished performance, but behind the scenes is a functioning military organization with officers, NCOs, Soldiers, schedules, training requirements, logistics, personnel issues, and all the other things that come with running an Army unit.

At the end of the day, Pershing’s Own might have a very different mission than an infantry battalion, aviation unit, or logistics organization, but leadership is still leadership. The commander must build an effective team, maintain high standards, take care of Soldiers, and make sure the organization is ready to accomplish its mission whenever called upon.

Is Pershing’s Own the Best Army Band?

Is Pershing’s Own the best Army band? That’s probably a matter of opinion, and I’m sure Army musicians could have a pretty good debate about it. What I can say is that The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” is the Army’s premier musical organization, and it has a unique mission that separates it from most other Army bands.

Calling Pershing’s Own the Army’s premier band doesn’t mean the other Army bands aren’t outstanding. There are incredibly talented Army musicians serving on Active Duty, in the Army National Guard, and in the Army Reserve. These Soldiers support change of command ceremonies, military funerals, community events, recruiting efforts, unit functions, patriotic celebrations, deployments, and countless other missions. Many of these bands become an important connection between local Army units and the communities surrounding them.

What makes Pershing’s Own different is primarily its mission, location, and level of responsibility. Being stationed in the National Capital Region means its Soldiers regularly support some of the highest-profile military and government events in the country. We’re talking about presidential events, official ceremonies, foreign dignitary visits, military funerals at Arlington National Cemetery, national celebrations, and other functions where the Army is being represented in front of senior leaders and the American public.

Think about the pressure that comes with some of those assignments. If you’re performing during a local unit ceremony and make a small mistake, someone might notice. If you’re performing during a presidential event being broadcast on national television, potentially millions of people could notice. When you’re supporting a military funeral at Arlington National Cemetery, the Soldier’s family deserves nothing less than your absolute best. The stakes and visibility can be incredibly high, which is one reason the standards for Pershing’s Own are so demanding.

The musicians themselves are also among the best in their profession. Positions within Pershing’s Own are highly competitive, and these Soldiers typically bring significant musical education, training, and professional experience with them. Getting selected to serve in the organization isn’t simply a matter of raising your hand and asking for the assignment. You have to demonstrate that you can perform at the level expected of the Army’s premier musical organization.

At the same time, I don’t believe we need to put down one Army band to recognize the accomplishments of another. Every Army band has a mission, and that mission matters. A National Guard band performing at a hometown Veterans Day ceremony might never receive national television coverage, but the performance could mean the world to the veterans and families standing in that crowd. An Army Reserve band supporting a military funeral provides the same type of dignity and respect that every veteran deserves.

That’s one thing I’ve learned throughout my military career: importance isn’t always measured by visibility. Some of the most meaningful missions Soldiers perform will never make the news or be seen by thousands of people.

So, is Pershing’s Own the “best” Army band? I’ll leave that debate to the musicians. What I will say is that Pershing’s Own represents the highest level of Army music and carries one of the most visible musical missions in the United States military. When the Army needs world-class musical support for some of our nation’s most important military and government events, there is a good chance The United States Army Band will be there.

Why Pershing’s Own Matters

Every now and then, you might hear someone ask why the Army needs professional musicians in the first place. After all, wouldn’t that money and manpower be better spent somewhere else?

I understand why someone outside the military might ask that question, but I look at it differently. Traditions matter. Ceremonies matter. Honoring our fallen Soldiers and veterans matters. And representing the United States Army professionally to the American people matters. Pershing’s Own plays an important role in all of those things.

Music has been connected to military service for hundreds of years. Long before Soldiers had radios, cell phones, satellites, and all the modern communication systems we take for granted today, military musicians served a very practical purpose. Drums, bugles, fifes, and other instruments were used to communicate commands, signal movements, regulate daily activities, boost morale, and help maintain order on the battlefield. Soldiers learned to recognize certain calls and knew exactly what they were supposed to do when they heard them. Military music wasn’t simply entertainment; it was part of how an Army operated.

Obviously, the mission has changed quite a bit since then. We don’t need a bugler standing on a hill to communicate orders to Soldiers on the battlefield anymore. Technology has taken care of that. However, music continues to play an important role in Army culture, ceremonies, history, and traditions. Some things simply can’t be replaced by technology, and I believe military music is one of them.

Think about a military funeral without Taps being played. Imagine a change of command ceremony without traditional Army music, or a presidential arrival ceremony without the appropriate musical honors.

Think about a Memorial Day ceremony, Veterans Day event, retirement ceremony, or military parade without music. Technically, you could still conduct those events, but something important would be missing. The music helps create the atmosphere, reinforces the meaning of the ceremony, and connects today’s Soldiers with the generations who wore the uniform before them.

Anyone who has spent much time in the Army knows we have a lot of traditions. Some might seem strange to civilians, and I’ll admit that some probably seem strange to Soldiers as well. But many of those traditions remind us that we’re part of something much bigger than ourselves. When you stand in formation during a ceremony and hear traditional Army music being played, you’re participating in many of the same customs that Soldiers experienced decades—or even generations—before you.

Pershing’s Own also serves another important purpose: connecting the Army with the American people. Most Americans will never serve in the military, and many have very little direct interaction with Soldiers.

Seeing The United States Army Band perform at a public concert, community event, national celebration, or televised ceremony gives civilians an opportunity to see another side of the Army. These musicians become ambassadors for the Army and demonstrate the professionalism, discipline, talent, and pride we expect from Soldiers.

At the end of the day, Pershing’s Own isn’t simply about playing great music. It’s about preserving Army traditions, honoring those who served before us, supporting today’s Soldiers and families, and representing the United States Army to the nation and the world. The instruments and types of music might change over time, but I don’t see that mission becoming any less important.

Can Civilians See Pershing’s Own Perform?

Absolutely. You don’t have to be a Soldier, veteran, government employee, or member of the military community to enjoy The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own.” One of the great things about the organization is that many of its performances are open to the general public. In fact, connecting the Army with the American people is an important part of what Pershing’s Own does.

Throughout the year, members of The U.S. Army Band participate in public concerts, military ceremonies, community outreach events, patriotic celebrations, educational programs, and other special performances. Some events take place in the National Capital Region, while others may be held elsewhere around the country. Depending on the event, you might see the Concert Band, Army Blues, Army Chorus, Downrange, Army Strings, Herald Trumpets, or another Pershing’s Own ensemble perform.

If you’re planning a trip to Washington, D.C., or Northern Virginia, I’d definitely recommend checking the band’s current performance schedule before your visit. There are so many military and historical attractions in that area already that seeing Pershing’s Own perform can be a great addition to your trip. If you’re a Soldier, veteran, military history buff, musician, or simply a patriotic American, I think you’d enjoy the experience.

One event I’d especially keep an eye out for is Twilight Tattoo, an Army production in the Washington, D.C., area that combines military music, drill and ceremony, Army history, and performances by Soldiers from Pershing’s Own and other ceremonial units. If you’ve never attended something like this before, it gives you a chance to experience Army traditions in a way that’s difficult to appreciate from photographs or videos.

I also think seeing Pershing’s Own live gives you a much better appreciation for the level of talent involved. Watching a video online is great, and I’m glad we have that option today, but it’s not quite the same as sitting in the audience and hearing professional musicians perform right in front of you. You can see the precision, teamwork, attention to detail, and professionalism that go into the performance.

If you can’t make it to Washington, D.C., don’t worry. Pershing’s Own also maintains an online presence where you can watch performances, learn about upcoming events, and find out more about the different ensembles. That’s certainly one advantage we have today that Americans didn’t have when the band was first created in 1922.

If you ever get the opportunity to see Pershing’s Own perform in person, take advantage of it. Many Americans will never get to see the Army’s premier musical organization live, and I think it’s one of those experiences that can give you a new appreciation for Army musicians, military traditions, and the incredible amount of talent found throughout our Armed Forces.

Final Thoughts

The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own” has proudly represented Soldiers, the Army, and our nation since 1922. What started with General John J. Pershing’s vision of creating a world-class military band has developed into one of the most respected and recognizable musical organizations in the United States military. More than 100 years later, the mission continues, and I think General Pershing would be pretty proud of what the organization bearing his name has become.

Throughout its history, Pershing’s Own has performed at presidential events, military funerals, national celebrations, official ceremonies, public concerts, and countless other important functions. These Soldiers have performed for presidents, senior military leaders, foreign dignitaries, veterans, military families, and everyday Americans. In many cases, they are performing during moments that people will remember for the rest of their lives.

What impresses me most about Pershing’s Own isn’t simply the music. Obviously, these are incredibly talented musicians, but it’s the standard they maintain that really stands out to me. These Soldiers must perform at a professional level while also maintaining the discipline, appearance, attention to detail, and professionalism expected of someone wearing the United States Army uniform. When you’re performing at Arlington National Cemetery, supporting a presidential ceremony, or representing the Army in front of thousands of people, there isn’t much room for error.

I also believe Pershing’s Own is a great reminder that there are many different ways to serve in the Army. We tend to think about infantry Soldiers, tankers, pilots, medics, mechanics, and other traditional military jobs when we picture Army service. But the Army is a huge organization made up of people with an incredible variety of skills. Army musicians bring their own unique talents to the mission, and Pershing’s Own represents the very highest level of that profession.

If you ever have the opportunity to see Pershing’s Own perform live, I encourage you to take advantage of it. Whether it’s a public concert, Twilight Tattoo, military ceremony, or another event, I think you’ll walk away with a new appreciation for the talent and professionalism of Army musicians. You might also gain a better understanding of why military music and traditions continue to play such an important role in today’s Army.

Finally, if you’ve ever served with Pershing’s Own, worked alongside the unit, or attended one of their performances, I’d love to hear from you. Leave a comment below and tell us about your experience. I’m especially interested in hearing from current or former Army musicians who can share what life is really like inside The United States Army Band.

Thanks for reading and thank you to the Soldiers of The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own”—past and present—for carrying on more than a century of Army tradition and excellence.

Recommended Toolkit

• Official Resource — The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own”
  Learn about the band’s history, mission, ensembles, upcoming performances, and career opportunities. The official history notes that General John J. Pershing ordered the band formed in 1922. Visit Pershing’s Own Official Website
• My Life Before the World War, 1860–1917 — John J. Pershing
  Pershing’s own memoir is a natural companion for readers who want to learn more about the Army leader behind the band’s name.
• My Experiences in the World War — John J. Pershing
  Pershing’s account of his World War I experience provides additional historical context for the general who established “Pershing’s Own” after seeing the importance of European military bands.
• Until the Last Trumpet Sounds: The Life of General of the Armies John J. Pershing — Gene Smith
  A full-length biography for readers interested in Pershing’s military career and legacy.
• Military Music & Marches
  For readers who enjoy the musical side of the story, Amazon has collections of American military marches and ceremonial music that complement the history of Army bands.

Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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