MCO 5060.20 — Marine Corps Drill And Ceremonies Manual

MCO 5060.20 governs close order drill and military ceremonial evolutions for Marine Corps organizations.

Search MCO 5060.20

  • Publication number: MCO 5060.20
  • Title: MARINE CORPS DRILL AND CEREMONIES MANUAL
  • Date: 15 May 2019
  • Proponent: 05000 General Admin & Management
  • Status: New

View MCO 5060.20 on armypubs.army.mil


It covers individual and unit drill, manual of arms, flags, inspections, reviews, parades, ceremonies, funerals, and ceremonial firing. It requires personnel to execute close order drill and ceremonies in accordance with the Order.

Applies to: This Order is applicable to the Marine Corps Total Force with the exception of Marine Barracks, Washington, DC, Officer Candidate School, Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) Parris Island, and MCRD San Diego.

Topics covered

  • Close order drill
  • Manual of arms
  • Sword and guidon movements
  • National and organizational flags
  • Inspections and reviews
  • Parades and ceremonies
  • Funerals and memorial services
  • Ceremonial firing

Questions and answers

What must personnel do under MCO 5060.20?

All Commanding officers, Officers-in-Charge, and personnel will execute close order drill and ceremonies in accordance with this Order in order to foster discipline and esprit de corps in our Marines. (paragraph 3)

How long are the steps during half step?

The purpose of half step is to march forward at quick time taking 15-inch steps. (paragraph 7)

When can the command “Right (Left) Step, MARCH” be given?

The command “Right (Left) Step, MARCH” is given only when you are at a halt. (paragraph 1-2)

What position does a color guard use instead of at ease or rest?

The color guard assumes the parade rest position in lieu of at ease or rest. (paragraph 9)

What are the parts of a review?

A review consists of four parts: a. Formation of troops. b. Presentation of the command to the reviewing official. This includes an inspection of the troop formation (trooping the line). c. Presentation of decorations and retirements. d. March in review. (paragraph 9)

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