Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/shockplatoon
Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/shockplatoon
The Norwich University Regimental Drill Team was established in 1937 under the name of Shock Platoon. The platoon was to be a group of cadets who were “highly efficient in personal appearance and soldierly bearing.” Admission to this crack platoon was on a competitive basis and each member was required to maintain the highest standards. For a short time, the platoon was called Escort Platoon and provided escorts to visiting teams and distinguished guests. Later, Shock Platoon would accompany the University Glee Club and orchestra on tours throughout New England for the benefit of citizens who enjoyed the “snap and color” of a military drill team.
Today, the high standards required of the original Shock Platoon are still maintained by the Norwich University Drill Team, and they continue to perform in parades, ceremonies and special events on campus and through New England. Drill Team members are required to learn numerous precision drill routines and provide support for special teams such as the Honor Guard, Saber Drill Team and Color Guard.
The talent of Drill Team is considered a showpiece of the nation’s oldest private military college. The team is a perennial powerhouse in U.S. college and university drill competitions.