Music is an important part of a military funeral. In addition to creating a moment of contemplation at the memorial service, the ceremonial band provides a steady beat for the processional and a backdrop for the transfer of the casket and travel to the graveside. The U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” is a premier military band, and a career appointment for its musicians stationed at Fort Myer, just outside of Arlington National Cemetery. In addition to funerals, the band provides musical support for official state visits and other national events. The product must be perfect for every single mission. Each branch of the military has a premier ceremonial band to accomplish this mission for their respective funerals. Leadership within the band are involved in the musical planning for a funeral from the beginning. They receive information from about the deceased including their religious preference or alma mater and they make musical choices based on those preferences. “We have hundreds of hymns for all religious affiliations ready to be performed, or marches and other music for those who aren’t religious,” said Master Sgt. Rob Moore. Moore leads the ceremonial band as the drum major, donning a large bearskin hat to make him easier to see. Music is performed by the ceremonial band whenever the casket is transported throughout the funeral service. Once the band has led the procession to the burial site, the casket team holds the flag over the gravesite waiting to be folded. Moore said his job gives him a sense of purpose as a musician. “What we do helps to mark this moment in their [the family] lives, and nothing can do that quite like music,” he said.

June 18, 2021

A sunrise over Arlington National Cemetery after a full week of services with Arlington Media.

March 3, 2021

Pictured here is a bald eagle carved into the walls leading up to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Today, the American bald eagle is protected under the National Emblem Act of 1940. The Founding Fathers made an appropriate choice when they selected the bald eagle as the emblem of the nation. The fierce beauty and proud independence of this great bird aptly symbolizes the strength and freedom of America.

February 25, 2022