1880: John Philip Sousa

Long before his music inspired the nation, John Philip Sousa took an apprenticeship with the Marine Band at age 13. 
 
He officially became head of the Marine Corps Band in 1880, conducting "The President's Own" under five presidents. Sousa was 
a gifted composer and became known as "The March King." 
 
His music continues to bring honor to the Marine Corps today. 
Many of his well-known compositions, including "The Stars and Stripes Forever," the National March of the United States and 
"Semper Fidelis," the Official March of the Marine Corps, are still widely recognized.