QUALCOMM STADIUM, SAN DIEGO -- -- Palomino-colored mustangs, each weighing well over 1,200 pounds, marched side-by-side deep into center field at Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, April 3 as part of the San Diego Padre's Military Appreciation Day.
The Marine Corps Mounted Color Guard, stationed at Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, Calif., was designated as the official mounted color guard of the Marine Corps in 1968 and is the only remaining mounted color guard in the Marine Corps.
From the custom-made bridles down to the high-polish Eagle, Globe and Anchors mounted on the black leather saddles, the mounted color guard exemplifies the professionalism associated with the Marine Corps.
Each year the mounted color guard travels across the West Coast performing in parades and ceremonies. Since 1990, the mounted color guard has participated in the Tournament of Roses Parade and has led the parade more than once, performing for crowds of up to 2 million people.
The Marine Corps Mounted Color Guard is made up of active-duty Marines who volunteer their evenings, weekends and holidays to perform these duties in addition to their regular duties.