The U.S. Army’s 3rd Infantry Regiment demonstrates colonial army maneuvers on the Bowling Green at Mount Vernon to celebrate the President George Washington’s designated birthday
What better place to celebrate Presidents Day, Feb. 19, than at the restored home of President George Washington? Thousands took advantage of free admission to the estate on Feb. 19 for Presidents Day and Feb. 22 for Washington’s birthday as part of the celebration.
The observance included a military demonstration by the 3rd U.S. Army Infantry, known as the Old Guard. The regiment is the oldest active-duty infantry unit in the Army, serving our nation since 1784. The Old Guard is the Army's official ceremonial unit and escort to the president, and also provides security for Washington, D.C. in time of national emergency or civil disturbance. The regiment wears the uniform of the Continental Army approved by General Washington in 1782. It consisted of a blue coat faced with a red collar, cuffs and lapels, white buttons and lining, long-fitting overalls, and a black cocked hat with cockade.
Also appearing, the Old Guard Fife and Drum Corp, the only unit of its kind in the armed forces.
The musicians of this unit recall the days of the American Revolution as they perform in uniforms patterned after those worn by the musicians of General George Washington's Continental Army. Military musicians of the period wore the reverse colors of the regiments to which they were assigned. The uniforms worn by the members of the Corps are dated circa 1784, and consist of black tricorn hats, white wigs, waistcoats, colonial coveralls, and distinct red regimental coats.
Photos by Susan Laume/The Connection
Close friends Avner Frederick and Charlie Hanger, both 8 years old, of Washington D.C., wore their own uniforms to celebrate the birthday of President George Washington, a favor of theirs even though they claim lineage to President Abraham Lincoln and Benjamin Franklin, respectively.
In Revolutionary Army formation to defend against cavalry attacks, the battalions discharge muskets
At 3 years old, Levi Foster is too young to join the Old Guard but clearly enjoys being part of President George Washington’s 297th birthday.
Platoons of the Old Guard reenact battle formation with bayonets ready at the Mount Vernon estate