The United States Naval Academy Drum and Bugle Corps (D&B) with Andrea Howard '15 - Podcast Episode #035

podcast May 28, 2020

D&B at the Naval Academy

Andrea Howard has already been a phenomenal guest on the Academy Insider podcast (Episode #014), but she’s back to offer a little more insight into another aspect of life at the United States Naval Academy.

Listen to the podcast episode about D&B here.

Andrea Howard was Commander of the Drum & Bugle Corps (D&B) in her Firstie (senior) year, in the Fall of 2014. This article will be all about D&B!

Introduction

The United States Naval Academy (USNA), an institution known for its rigorous military and academic training, also offers an array of extracurricular activities that enrich the midshipman experience. Among these, the Drum and Bugle Corps (D&B) stands out as a unique blend of musical talent and naval discipline, impacting not just its members but the entire Academy community.

The Drum and Bugle Corps: A Fusion of Music and Military Precision

D&B, comprising about 100 midshipmen each year, embodies the spirit of the Brigade with its ensemble of percussion and brass instruments. Andrea’s journey in D&B, from a new joiner to the Corps Commander, highlights a path of leadership, camaraderie, and personal growth. The Corps, acting as a "37th company", develops its leaders and fosters a supportive culture that rivals that of any company within the Brigade.

Under Andrea’s leadership, D&B not only showcased musical excellence but also focused on the holistic development of its members, emphasizing academics and physical fitness alongside musical training. This approach reflects the broader mission of the Naval Academy, balancing moral, mental, and physical development.

Unforgettable Experiences and Leadership Lessons

One of the most striking aspects of D&B is the level of independence and responsibility afforded to its members, particularly those in leadership positions. Andrea recalls planning and executing logistics for nationwide performances, a task that presented unique challenges and learning opportunities. This autonomy is a testament to the trust placed in midshipmen, preparing them for leadership roles in their future naval careers.

The Role of D&B in Naval Traditions

D&B is not just about performances; it is an integral part of the traditions that define the Naval Academy. From football games to formal parades, D&B adds a layer of spirit and pride to every occasion. Andrea fondly remembers the diverse events D&B participated in, each offering a chance to promote Naval spirit and foster unity within the Brigade. The Corps’ involvement in sports, particularly in supporting Navy teams against Army, exemplifies the role of D&B in building morale and team spirit.

Creating a Second Family

Beyond the performances and the practices lies the core of D&B’s impact: the community it builds. Andrea emphasizes the close-knit nature of D&B, describing it as a "second company" for many of its members. This sense of family, forged through shared experiences and challenges, extends beyond the Academy walls, with alumni maintaining strong connections long after graduation.

A Path Worth Taking

Andrea Howard’s insights into D&B reveal an organization that offers much more than just musical education. It is a microcosm of the Academy experience, emphasizing leadership, brotherhood, and self-development. For those at the Naval Academy or considering joining, D&B represents an opportunity to engage in a fulfilling extracurricular activity that enhances the traditional midshipman experience.

In this episode of the Academy Insider podcast, we are reminded of the diverse opportunities available at the Naval Academy. D&B is a prime example of how extracurricular activities can complement academic and military training, offering lessons that resonate well beyond the Academy’s gates.

Conclusion

The Drum and Bugle Corps at the United States Naval Academy is more than just a musical group; it is a leadership laboratory, a family, and an essential part of the Naval Academy tradition. Through the experiences shared by Andrea Howard, we gain an appreciation for the dedication, passion, and camaraderie that define D&B. It stands as a shining example of the rich, multifaceted life at the Academy, where every midshipman has the opportunity to explore their interests, develop new skills, and prepare for a future of service and leadership.

The Drum and Bugle Corps plays at football and basketball games.

They also play at noon meal formations.

In addition, they play in parades, concerts, and events around the country and internationally too.

Listen to the Podcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/035-drum-and-bugel-corps-with-andrea-howard-15/id1463594323?i=1000476029055

Thank you to Jordan Orris of the Academy Insider team for her contributions to this post!

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Founder of Academy Insider and Podcast Host Grant Vermeer

Grant Vermeer is the founder of Academy Insider and the host of The Academy Insider podcast. He was a recruited athlete which brought him to Annapolis where he was a four-year member of the varsity basketball team.

He was a cyber operations major and commissioned into the Cryptologic Warfare Community. He was stationed at Fort Meade and supported the Subsurface Direct Support mission.

He separated from the Navy in 2023 and now owns The Vermeer Group, a residential real estate company that specializes in serving the United States Naval Academy community with nationwide consulting and connection.