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PRESS
RELEASES
THE
US BATTLE COLOUR DETACHMENT SET TO JET IN FROM WASHINGTON DC
FOR THE QUEEN'S GOLDEN JUBILEE TATTOO CELEBRATIONS
Posted 25th July 2002
It
was a Sunday afternoon in March two years ago that Tattoo Chief
& Producer, Brigadier Melville Jameson met Senator John Warner,
former Chairman of the United States Armed Forces Defence Committee
in Washington DC.
His
mission was to secure a commitment for the elite United States
Marine 'Battle Colour Detachment' to perform for Her Majesty at
the Queen's Golden Jubilee Tattoo (2-24 August).
But
there was a problem. Throughout the summer months the Unit - which
provides Presidential support duties - performs the traditional
Friday Evening Parade held in Washington DC.
Discussions
were then held with the US Marines Commandant, General James Jones
together with Senator Warner - a former husband of Hollywood legend,
Elizabeth Taylor - in an effort to find a way forward.
And,
in view of the special occasion of the Golden Jubilee, a solution
was found. Simply fly the 120-strong Corps the 4,000 miles to
Edinburgh immediately following their Friday Parade.
So,
for 3 nights only (August 5, 6 & 7) and as a unique gesture
to demonstrate the special relationship that the UK has had with
the US over 50 years of The Queen's reign, this handpicked group
of Marines - comprising the Drum and Bugle Corps leading the Colour
Guard and the Silent Drill Platoon - will parade at the Esplanade
of Edinburgh Castle to celebrate this special event.
Said
Brigadier Jameson: "We at the Tattoo are very honoured by
this magnanimous gesture. This special 3-night performance, not
to mention the 8,000 miles round trip, exemplifies the spirit
and professionalism of the US Marines. And it certainly promises
to be one of the highlights of the evening."
-Ends-
Editor's Note:
The Marines, who have one opportunity to rehearse on the Esplanade
prior to their evening performance before The Queen, will be put
through their paces at 7.00am on August 5th at the Castle to which
Media are cordially invited.
Sponsors
this year whose valuable support is gratefully acknowledged include:-
The
Royal Bank of Scotland
Norwich Union
Standard Life
Dewar's World of Whisky
Ford
For
further information, please contact :
The
Tattoo Office, 32 Market Street, Edinburgh EH1 1QB
Tel: 0131 225 4783 Fax: 0131 225 8627
Email:
edintattoo@edintattoo.co.uk
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