For the seventh time since its formation in 1909, the Citadel Regimental Band and Pipes have been granted the honor of marching in the Presidential Inaugural parade. The Citadel has a history with Presidential events. Band units from the institution were present at the inaugurations of Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1953, John F. Kennedy in 1960 and Ronald Reagan in 1985.Other appearances by the band included 1957, 1989 and 2005.
The flag carried by The Citadel during the inaugural parade in 1953. Out of 30 teams invited to the inaugural parade, The Citadel placed second and received this trophy. An estimated 1 million people attended the ceremony. The flag was donated to The Citadel Museum by Col. Donald Collins, Class of 1943.