The Twilight Tattoo honors the US Army’s 250-year legacy with historical performances. This year’s events culminate in a grand, controversial military parade.
This month, the “Twilight Tattoo” celebrated the upcoming 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States Army. While it may sound like decorative ink on one’s skin (possibly related to the series of vampire books and movies), it was the other type of tattoo, as in a large-scale musical and ceremonial performance.
It is a “time-honored tradition” that even predates the United States, originating in North America when British Army soldiers were, “summoned from the warmth and hospitality of local pubs by a bugle and drum call to return to the barracks. The familiar tune told tavern owners Do den tap toe, or time to turn off the taps.”
The US Army began the Twilight Tattoo just before the Second World War, when the 3rd Cavalry Regiment held military shows at Fort Myer, Virginia, during the winter months.
The presentations ended when the United States entered the war. Still, the US Army Military District of Washington revived the traditional show in 1961, featuring soldiers from the Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps, the US Army Drill Team, and other ceremonial units. It has been presented every summer near the National Capital Region. The Twilight Tattoo is now carried out by the 3rd Infantry Division, the Old Guard, and the US Army Band “Pershing’s Own.”
The Twilight Tattoo in 2025
This year’s performances aimed to share the story of the US Army’s past 250 years, each highlighting a different era or campaign.
“For 250 years, generations of Americans have answered the call to serve, and they’ve done so in countless ways on and off the battlefield,” explained Capt. Mary Thompson, personnel officer for the 1st Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment, narrated the live event on May 28 at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia.
“Everyone who has worn the uniform of our country has demonstrated their bravery, skill, and loyalty, which is the hallmark of our dedicated American soldier, and they are all part of our army’s rich history.”
What You Should Know About the Twilight Tattoo
The Twilight Tattoo will not be the only major event marking the milestone anniversary for the oldest branch of the US military. Plans are still underway for the large-scale military parade, scheduled for June 14, coinciding with President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday.
As previously reported, the event will include dozens of M1 Abrams main battle tanks (MBTs) and M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs), and approximately 100 other vehicles. Additionally, it will feature a demonstration from the renowned US Army parachute team, the Golden Knights.
During his first term, Trump had previously employed the parachute team during the July 4, 2020, “Salute to America” celebrations.
However, this year is set to be even grander. It has already received significant backlash, with critics complaining about the costs, with some estimates suggesting it will be as high as $45 million. The plan does not include any cleanup operation or factor in the cost to repair DC’s roads should the heavy MBTs leave any damage.
“It’s a lot of money,” US Army spokesperson Steve Warren told The New York Times. “But I think that amount is dwarfed by 250 years of service and sacrifice by America’s Army.”
About the Author: Peter Suciu
Peter Suciu has contributed over 3,200 published pieces to more than four dozen magazines and websites over a thirty-year career in journalism. He regularly writes about military hardware, firearms history, cybersecurity, politics, and international affairs. Peter is also a Contributing Writer for Forbes and Clearance Jobs. He is based in Michigan. You can follow him on Twitter: @PeterSuciu. You can email the author: [email protected].
Image Credit: Shutterstock/Christopher Lyzcen.
