For the first time since it began in 1948 the famed Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon will be led by a female commander. A first for one of the Marine Corps’ most famous units.

Marines selected for the Silent Drill Platoon go through rigorous training before they perform in front of audiences in the U.S. and around the world.

Hastings will command the Silent Drill Platoon for the 2023 parade season. She previously served as a marching platoon commander in 2021 and a marching company executive officer in 2022.

When Capt. Kelsey Hastings takes command of the Marine Corps’ revered Silent Drill Platoon later this month, she will become the unit’s first female leader — and its first-ever female member.