2003

In February of 2003, the 1st Marine Division Band began deploying to Kuwait in support of the war on terror. While in Kuwait, the band stood duty as well as trained on machine guns and convoy security prior to deployment into Iraq. In March, the band crossed over into Iraq, providing security for the Division Headquarters both while on the move or at each nightly stop digging fighting positions and forming perimeter security. They traveled by convoy to Baghdad in a little over 2 weeks. The band finally stopped at the Secret Police Headquarters in Baghdad for eight days, before moving south to Ad Diwaniyah.

Once the band reached Ad Diwaniyah they retrieved their instruments and started performing morale boosting concerts all over Iraq. They played in Babylon, Camp Commando, and around Diwaniyah for the numerous units in the surrounding area.

In early June the band returned to the United States and within a few days they were out providing musical support as if they hadn’t left.

2004

Soon after returning from Operation Iraqi Freedom I, the 1st Marine Division Band started training for the next deployment. Late in 2003 they were informed that they would be returning to Iraq. In February 2004 the Band deployed to Kuwait and remained there until the 1st Marine Division advanced into Iraq. Soon thereafter, they began a 3-day push to Ar Ramadi. This was to be the band’s home for the next seven months.

In Ar Ramadi they controlled the base operations and provided perimeter security for Camp Blue Diamond. Additional assignments for the band included security on convoys to nearby bases and patrols outside the perimeter. Even though the base endured countless indirect fire attacks, the Marine Musicians still kept an intense vigilance.

Although performances were very limited during this time, the Band still participated in several ceremonies including the Change of Command ceremonies in both Ramadi and Fallujah, and the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and Division change of commands.

2005 - 2007

In the most recent deployment, the 1st MarDiv Band was attached to Headquarters Company, Regimental Combat Team 5 and was deployed to Camp Fallujah, Iraq from February 2006 to January 2007 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom 05-07. This deployment differed from OIF I and II in that the Band continued its musical mission at home, while elements of the Band deployed.
 

The Band’s primary role in Iraq was as a security detachment. While some members of the Band served as part of the Command element, others were stationed at the Government Center in Fallujah providing over-watch security for the compound. This security allowed Civil Affairs Group personnel, as well as government, military and civilian officials, to conduct business at the compound in safety. Division bandsmen were also attached as gunners, drivers and vehicle commanders to the security element of an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, as well as a multi-purpose security convoy.

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Suicide Prevention Resources

https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help/hotline

800-273-8255, press 1

https://www.usmc-mccs.org/services/support/dstress-line/

877-476-7734

Eagle Eyes is the official Marine Corps community awareness SAR program. The program allows anyone to report suspicious activity through the Eagle Eyes website, www.usmceagleeyes.org or dial 911 to report emergencies.

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