On February 23, 1960, the Old Guard Fife & Drum Corps was activated at Fort Myer, VA. The Corps was the result of the Commanding General of the Military District of Washington wishing to field “a fife, drum and bugle corps.” The fifty-member Corps was outfitted with instruments, uniforms, and accoutrements for just over $10,000. A memorandum of agreement with the U.S. Army Band provided for training for members of the Corps.
On April 23, 1960, just two months after activation, the Corps marched in its first parade (shown in photo). The Corps marched on Fort Myer’s South Drill Field (near present-day Bowling Center), wearing Class A Green Uniforms. Members of the Corps are wearing blue Infantry cords, as original members of the Fife and Drum Corps were selected from members of the 1st Battle Group, 3rd Infantry Regiment. Members did not necessarily have prior musical experience, but showed a willingness to learn.
See documents related to the founding and establishment of the Corps here:
First Fife & Drum Corps parade photo:
Old Guard History 