The Marine Barracks Washington, D.C., announced on Tuesday that it is cooperating with a Naval Criminal Investigative Service investigation into allegations of hazing by Marines with the Silent Drill Platoon.
“Marine Barracks Washington takes any and all claims of hazing seriously and immediately began an internal command investigation into the allegations before turning that investigation over to NCIS," a command release said.
The Corps has provided no other details as the allegations are still under investigation.
The Silent Drill Platoon conducts precision drill movements that include spinning M1 Garand rifles during ceremonies and parade events.
Friday evenings from May to August, the Silent Drill Platoon can be viewed performing its routine during the Evening Parade ceremony held at the Marine Barracks Washington.
Marines selected for the Silent Drill Platoon go through rigorous training before they perform in front of audiences in the U.S. and around the world.
“The Marines at the Barracks take pride in their daily duties and their reputation in the community, which was demonstrated in September when Marines helped first responders rescue and provide aid for our neighbors when an apartment complex caught fire,” the command release said.
Shawn Snow is the senior reporter for Marine Corps Times and a Marine Corps veteran.