Drill Team (Flannigan Rifles) Coach: LTC Dan Williams
The Marmion drill team is currently in its 83rd year of existence. The team was officially formed in September of 1947, by Technical Sergeant Earl K. Buchan. The team performed its first public exhibition on December 10th, 1948, in Aurora, Illinois. On March 4, 1950, Marmion Military Academy’s drill platoon participated in a 15-minute drill routine in front of 5,000 spectators, at the Chicago Armory. The broadcast was televised by WGN Television, Chicago, Illinois. The drill platoon was commanded by Cadet Lieutenant Richard Murphy. In a ceremony held 46 years ago at Marmion Academy, the drill team was officially named ‘Flannigan Rifles.’ The team was named in honor of Robert W. and Gerald F. Flannigan; while students at Marmion, both served as company commanders. Gerald Flannigan died while in service to his country, during World War II. Robert passed away shortly before the November 11th ceremony in 1975.
Realizing Flannigan Rifles is more than the team’s awards, although, it is a convenient way to depict the team's success; one cannot overlook its culture and character. One should examine the integrity of each cadet, the academy and church, the military instructors, the Marmion Community, and the team's reputation in competitive drill, to appreciate the absolute embodiment of Flannigan Rifles. A cadet must utilize his skill, talent, experience, and background, to challenge himself through discipline, moral character, and personal responsibility.
Each year, the number of students interested in participating in Drill and Ceremony increases far more than any other team or club on campus. Approximately, 15-20 freshmen cadets are offered positions on the team during the freshman member induction, held during the month of November. Becoming a Flannigan Rifles cadet demands the most from each individual; but it is through its mentorship process, student-taught and student-led approach, that the team continues to flourish.