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Sound retreat: Joint base comes together for ceremony

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Katherine Tereyama
  • Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Public Affairs
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. --  In a resounding voice that echoed across the parade grounds, Marine Gunnery Sgt. Chris Brusich called to members of Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.

"Sound retreat."

His call was followed by a blast of cannon fire and the first strains of retreat played by the 78th Regional Support Command Army Band.

This marked the inaugural retreat ceremony for the joint base that incorporated groups of military members in formation from each of the five services represented on the base.

Retreat is a centuries-old military tradition that was adopted by the United States and has evolved over the years since the Revolutionary War. The bugle call now signifies the end of the duty day and is followed by the playing of the national anthem. An honor guard formation then ceremoniously lowers and folds the American flag.

Air Force Master Sgt. David Williamson, 87th Air Base Wing NCO in charge of protocol, said this particular ceremony was held to recognize the accomplishments of units within the joint base. Several units were highlighted during the ceremony for their actions during several operations.

The ceremony was also an opportunity for members of different services who don't often get to work together, to support a common cause. Brusich said it was an honor acting as commander of troops for all five services.

"It was great to see the teamwork and cooperation between the services," Brusich said. While each military branch has its own drill traditions, Brusich said everyone was able to overcome their differences and work together.

"Oct. 1 marks our fourth year as a joint base," said Col. James Hodges, JB MDL commander. "Together, we form the greatest fighting force. Each of our uniforms says 'U.S. Air Force,' 'U.S. Marines,' 'U.S. Navy,' 'U.S. Army,' and 'U.S. Coast Guard.' But if you cover up the last part, they all say U.S. We're all working toward the same goal."