However, the promotion of American diplomacy is a Marine duty. The Marine Corps has the Marine Security Guard (MSG) program that provides protection and security to U.S. embassies. The MSG is considered a solid force for American diplomacy.
Marines as Diplomats
There are people who argue that President’s Own are not “real Marines” and rather just “musicians.”
U.S. Marine Embassy Security Guard logo, N.D., Marine Corps Embassy Security Group
By performing, the President’s Own has shown itself to be a major contributor to foreign relationships during state dinners. They promote American ideals through music. As Marines and diplomats, the President’s Own has certainly done its job.
"Excessive and a Luxury"
Democrat representative Betty McCollum from Minnesota stated that “military bands are not essential to national defense” and are “excessive and a luxury the Pentagon and taxpayers can no longer afford.” Similar statements were heard from the other party as well as from the Citizens Against Government Waste, a conservative advocacy group. However, a musicologist named David Hebert countered the argument by noting that “U.S. military bands provide a much-needed relief to soldiers” and “emphasize such values as altruism and even international cooperation.” This is exactly what the President’s Own does.