What is the Marine Corps band known as?

• A. The President's Own
• B. The Old Guard
• C. The Marine Band
• D. The Brass Band

Answer: (A)

The Marine Corps band is officially named The President's Own United States Marine Band, a title that expresses its role in performing for the President and for national ceremonies. This honorific—shortened in common usage to The President's Own—highlights its unique relationship with the presidency, not just as a military band but as the principal musical unit that serves official duties at White House and national events. The band has a long history, being founded in 1798, which also makes it the oldest professional musical ensemble in the United States. That combination of presidential ties and historical prestige is what makes this name the best fit. The Old Guard is an Army ceremonial unit, so it’s not the Marines’ band; calling it The Marine Band is a common but less precise expression; and The Brass Band is just a generic type of band with no specific official connection to the presidency.