Swabbies with Rifles.
I am one of several members of my American Legion Post who is called upon from time to time to participate in the Rifle Squad. The Rifle Squad shows up several times per year at various civic events (e.g. Flag Day, Memorial Day) to fire ceremonial volleys. It is important for each of us to know the rudiments of the Manual of Arms, so we look something like a unit, rather than four old partisans with rifles.
As such, those of us who served in the Army always tease the Navy Vets in the Squad about how their Navy rifle training consisted of being shown which end of the rifle produces the bullets.
There are, however, some sailors who kick ass and take names when it comes to the Manual of Arms and then some, and they do it with fixed bayonets.
Behold, the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard Drill Team in action.
Thanks to my friend Brian, the Air Force Vet.
That was really cool, amazing work. Thanks for sharing Jim…:)
Comment by Lisa W. — July 13, 2006 @ 8:54 pm
Absolutely………no words….love our drill teams and such…capabilities beyond what some can’t comprehend.
Comment by imp — July 13, 2006 @ 10:24 pm
They are good, and belie the notion that all sailors have to be shown which end the bullet comes out (actually did convince a teacher one time that you put the small round end to the shoulder and gently pushed the trigger). Thanks for sharing this.
Comment by Laughing Wolf — July 14, 2006 @ 8:31 am
I’m thinkin’ those bayonets weren’t made of grey plastic, either.
Comment by dogette — July 14, 2006 @ 8:55 am
KICK’N A$$ fantasic!
Comment by h~ — July 14, 2006 @ 11:53 am
Did that in 71-72 as part of the drill team. Those are real Springfields,nickle plated with rosewood stocks, and real bayonets.
Comment by MCPO Airdale — July 14, 2006 @ 9:21 pm
Hey,
They better watch out for those pointed things and how about the Navy at least buying them some updated rifles. Those Springfields probably don’t have rifeling left in them!
Only kidding. They did look pretty sharp… for swabbies.
Rick
Comment by Ricklude — July 15, 2006 @ 2:03 am
Rick – Hard to execute a Queen Anne salute with an M-4! 😉
Comment by MCPO Airdale — July 15, 2006 @ 11:19 pm
I’m a sucker for any Honor Guard exercises. This team is wonderful, the way that officer in the middle doesn’t even move a facial muscle while those sharp instruments are flying over his head is just too cool.
Very cool.
Comment by Gina — July 16, 2006 @ 1:20 pm