Silent Drill Platoon performs at MCAS Yuma ahead of Yuma Airshow

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - The United States Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon delivered a special on-base performance at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Yuma as part of preparations for the upcoming Yuma Airshow, offering local residents and fellow service members a preview of what spectators can expect during the event this weekend.

A group of 24 Marines are participating in this weekend's silent drill performance at the airshow. The platoon is made up of Marines from across the U.S. who travel throughout the country performing their precision routine.

According to Dylan Lewis, guide for the Silent Drill Platoon, the performance marks the beginning of a busy season following months of intense preparation.

"This is actually one of the first few shows that we’re doing this year," Lewis said. "Before this, we've done about three months of just straight drilling, all day, every day, to prepare for this moment."

The rehearsal performance at MCAS Yuma was attended by both local residents and military members stationed in the area.

During the demonstration, the Marines performed their choreographed routine while a Blue Angels jet flew overhead, adding to the spectacle for those in attendance.

While the appearance served as an early showcase for the unit, the Silent Drill Platoon expects to maintain a demanding performance schedule throughout the year. Platoon Cmdr. Jonathon Kirby said the group aims to appear frequently across the country.

"We shoot for 100 performances a year," Cmdr. Kirby said. "After we get done with MCAS Yuma Airshow, we're gonna go back, get some well-earned leave, about a week."

Spectators will have the opportunity to see the Marines perform again during the 60th Annual Yuma Airshow this weekend at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma.