About the Troopers Legacy Corps

Introduction: A Legacy Reborn

On a warm August night in 2023, the lights of Lucas Oil Stadium shone brightly on a scene that could only be described as breathtaking. Hundreds of musicians, spanning decades of history, stood side by side on the field during the Drum Corps International World Championships Semifinals. They were not competing. They were not chasing scores. Instead, they were united by something more profound—a desire to honor the history of one of the activity’s most influential organizations: the Troopers Drum & Bugle Corps.

This ensemble was the Troopers Legacy Corps, a group formed to celebrate the corps’ 65th anniversary. What began as a reunion project quickly evolved into something larger: a living bridge between generations. Alumni from the 1960s marched alongside those who aged out in the 2010s. Fans who had never performed with the Troopers found a home in the group as well, proving that the Troopers’ spirit could extend beyond competitive boundaries. Together, they filled the stadium with the soaring strains of the “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” a piece synonymous with the corps’ patriotic identity.

The moment was more than a performance. It was a declaration of continuity. It demonstrated that the Troopers are not simply a drum corps that shaped history in the 20th century; they are a cultural force that continues to evolve, adapt, and inspire. The Legacy Corps became the vessel for this declaration, blending nostalgia with innovation, and affirming the idea that drum corps can truly be a lifelong pursuit.

This article explores the Troopers Legacy Corps: its origins, its debut, its transformation into a permanent ensemble, and its future role in the drum corps community. But to understand why this project resonates so deeply, one must first look back at the Troopers themselves—the corps that, in many ways, helped create the activity we know today.

The Troopers: A Corps That Made Drum Corps

To appreciate the Legacy Corps, one must first understand the extraordinary role the Troopers Drum & Bugle Corps have played in shaping the marching arts. Founded in 1957 by Jim Jones in Casper, Wyoming, the Troopers quickly gained a reputation as innovators, patriots, and pioneers.

A Western Identity

Unlike many corps rooted in urban centers or affiliated with veterans’ organizations, the Troopers were distinctly Western. Their cowboy-hat uniforms, Western-themed music, and rugged frontier spirit set them apart. For audiences, the Troopers became a musical embodiment of the American West—an identity that resonated deeply during the turbulent 1960s, when patriotism and tradition were often contested in American culture.

This Western brand was not just visual flair. It became an ethos. Troopers members carried themselves with the discipline and pride of cavalrymen. Their motto—“Honor, Loyalty, Dedication”—encapsulated both military precision and familial bonds. That sense of identity would become the anchor for alumni decades later as they formed the Legacy Corps.

Innovators of the Activity

The Troopers earned their nickname as “The Corps That Made Drum Corps” through innovation. Several of the activity’s modern hallmarks can be traced directly to them:

  • Touring Model: In the 1960s, the Troopers pioneered long-distance touring, traveling thousands of miles across the U.S. while other corps largely stayed local. This set the stage for the nationwide tours that define DCI today.
  • Sunburst Drill: The iconic “sunburst” formation, in which the corps expands from a tight block into a dazzling circular burst, became one of the most famous drill moves in marching history. It was more than a visual trick—it was a symbol of energy, expansion, and the Western sun.
  • Showmanship and Accessibility: The Troopers combined musical excellence with accessibility, performing patriotic and Western-themed programs that connected with audiences on an emotional level. Their shows were not only technical feats but also cultural statements.

Founders of DCI

When Drum Corps International was founded in 1972, the Troopers were one of its 13 charter members. Their presence lent credibility and vision to the fledgling organization. They weren’t just participants; they were leaders who helped set the trajectory of competitive drum corps.

A Patriotic Standard-Bearer

Perhaps no corps has been as closely tied to American patriotism as the Troopers. Their performances of the “Battle Hymn of the Republic” and other Americana pieces became rallying points at shows across the country. At a time when national identity was often divisive, the Troopers reminded audiences of unity and shared heritage.

This reputation earned them invitations to perform at high-profile events, from presidential inaugurations to international exhibitions. For many Americans, the Troopers became the face of drum corps—a representation of discipline, honor, and national pride.

Challenges and Resurgence

Like many corps, the Troopers faced challenges in the 1990s and early 2000s, including financial strains and competitive struggles. Yet, true to their identity, they endured. In recent years, the Troopers have regained prominence in DCI competition, consistently pushing artistic boundaries while retaining their Western spirit.

Their resurgence laid the groundwork for something new: an opportunity to honor the past without detracting from the present. Alumni, fans, and staff recognized that the Troopers’ history was too rich to remain only in memory. It deserved to be lived, performed, and shared again. Out of this realization, the Troopers Legacy Corps was born.

The Birth of the Legacy Corps (2018–2023)

By the late 2010s, the Troopers had weathered decades of change—fluctuations in competitive placement, financial challenges, and the evolving expectations of the marching arts. Yet one constant remained: a loyal and passionate alumni base.

For years, alumni had gathered informally at shows, reunions, and local events. They swapped stories of cross-country tours, celebrated victories, and recalled the hardships of “Troop life.” But as anniversaries approached, the idea of something larger began to take shape.

A Bold Idea in 2018

The spark came in 2018, when alumni leaders and organizational staff began discussing plans for the corps’ 65th anniversary. The milestone presented an opportunity not only to celebrate history but also to perform it. Why not bring together alumni and fans for a one-time performance that would pay tribute to the Troopers’ legacy?

At first, the project was envisioned as a classic alumni corps—a group made up exclusively of former Troopers who wanted to relive their marching days. But the conversation quickly evolved. There were countless Troopers fans, volunteers, and marching enthusiasts who had never marched with the corps but carried deep admiration for its history. Opening the doors to them would transform the project into something far greater.

Thus, the Troopers Legacy Corps was born, built on the principle of inclusion. It would be a celebration of community, not just of alumni status.

Building Momentum

Between 2018 and 2022, alumni leaders spread the word. Interest grew steadily, with participants signing on from across the United States and beyond. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted early planning but did not derail the vision. In fact, it reinforced the desire for community and reconnection.

By 2022, the framework was in place: the Legacy Corps would assemble for rehearsals in 2023, culminating in a performance at the Drum Corps International World Championships in Indianapolis. The Troopers organization lent its full support, ensuring the project had both visibility and institutional backing.

Principles of Purpose

From the beginning, organizers articulated four guiding principles that shaped the group’s mission:

  1. Honor the Past – Perform Troopers classics, wear traditional uniforms, and relive the experiences that defined the corps.
  2. Serve the Present – Ensure the Legacy Corps operated in ways that did not divert resources from the junior corps, instead offering support through volunteering, fundraising, and mentorship.
  3. Expand Inclusion – Welcome not only alumni but also fans and drum corps enthusiasts who wished to experience “being a Trooper” for the first time.
  4. Celebrate Togetherness – Use music and performance as tools for unity, bridging generations and backgrounds.

With these principles in place, the Legacy Corps was ready to step onto the field and into history.

The 2023 World Championships Showcase

The stage was set: August 11, 2023, Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis. The DCI World Championships Semifinals—one of the biggest stages in the marching arts. As fans filled the stands, anticipation buzzed through the air. The audience knew this was no ordinary exhibition.

A Multigenerational Army

When the Troopers Legacy Corps marched onto the field, the scale was immediately striking. More than 200 performers filled the stadium, many in the iconic cowboy hat uniforms that have defined the corps for decades. Members ranged in age from their early 20s to their 70s. Some had not marched in uniform for 40 years. Others were participating in their first major drum corps event.

The diversity of experience was palpable. Veterans of the Vietnam War era stood shoulder-to-shoulder with millennials who had grown up watching DCI livestreams. Each carried a unique story, but all shared the same pride: to once again (or for the first time) call themselves a Trooper.

The Music: A Return to the Classics

The program centered on “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” perhaps the most iconic piece in Troopers history. First introduced in the 1960s, the piece became a staple of the corps’ patriotic identity. It had been heard at presidential inaugurations, community parades, and stadiums around the world. To alumni, it was more than music—it was a musical embodiment of honor and sacrifice.

The arrangement for 2023 was expansive, designed to showcase the sheer size and power of the ensemble. As the opening chords rang out, a wave of nostalgia swept through the stadium. For many in the audience, it was like stepping back in time.

The Symbolic Union

Midway through the performance, the Legacy Corps was joined on the field by the Troopers A Corps, the current junior competitive ensemble. The visual was powerful: generations of Troopers standing side by side, playing the same notes, executing the same traditions.

For alumni, it was a moment of profound pride. For younger members, it was a reminder that they were part of something much bigger than a single season. The Troopers were not just a corps—they were a continuum.

Audience Reaction

The audience’s response was electric. Fans rose to their feet, clapping along as the massed ensemble filled the dome with sound. Many in the stands wept openly. Alumni who had once battled for championships now stood united in something deeper: a celebration of shared heritage.

For DCI fans, the performance was a rare reminder that drum corps is not only about competition and scores—it is also about community, legacy, and connection.

A Turning Point

The performance was originally intended as a one-time celebration, a fitting close to the Troopers’ 65th anniversary year. But as the stadium roared with applause and alumni embraced one another after the show, it became clear that this could not end here.

The success of the 2023 performance transformed the Troopers Legacy Corps from a project into a movement. What had been conceived as a temporary ensemble became the foundation for a permanent organization—one that would continue performing, teaching, and inspiring for years to come.

From One-Time Project to Permanent Ensemble

In the immediate aftermath of the 2023 World Championships performance, alumni and fans were buzzing. Social media lit up with photos, videos, and testimonials. Troopers supporters from across the country praised the performance not only for its musical quality but for its emotional resonance. Many echoed the same refrain: This cannot be the end.

From Celebration to Continuity

Initially, the Legacy Corps had been envisioned as a finite project—a way to celebrate the corps’ 65th anniversary with grandeur. But the sheer scale of enthusiasm proved that the appetite for such an ensemble was much larger than anticipated.

Within weeks, discussions began to transform the Legacy Corps into a permanent ensemble. The Troopers’ Board of Directors and alumni leadership recognized that continuing the project would provide multiple benefits:

  • Alumni Engagement: Giving past members an active role maintained their connection to the corps.
  • Community Expansion: Welcoming non-alumni broadened the organization’s reach and support base.
  • Financial Support: Legacy Corps members often contributed financially or volunteered, easing the burden on the junior corps.
  • Public Visibility: Performances outside the DCI competitive circuit kept the Troopers name in the public eye year-round.

Embracing SoundSport

The natural home for the Legacy Corps became DCI SoundSport, a performance platform designed for ensembles of all sizes and ages. Unlike competitive junior corps, SoundSport emphasizes entertainment and accessibility. It provides the perfect balance of structure and freedom, allowing groups like the Legacy Corps to flourish without the demands of full touring.

By participating in SoundSport, the Legacy Corps gained a recurring spotlight at DCI events while freeing itself from the competitive pressures faced by the A Corps. For members, it meant they could enjoy the thrill of performance while balancing careers, families, and other commitments.

Supporting, Not Competing

One of the most important decisions made early on was that the Legacy Corps would operate in ways that did not divert resources from the junior corps. Instead, it would enhance the overall Troopers ecosystem.

Legacy Corps members often:

  • Volunteered during A Corps rehearsals and tours.
  • Assisted with fundraising campaigns.
  • Served as mentors to younger members.
  • Provided professional expertise in areas like logistics, communications, and education.

In this way, the Legacy Corps became not only a performance ensemble but also a support system for the junior corps.

A Permanent Identity

By late 2023, the Troopers Legacy Corps had officially transitioned from an anniversary project into a standing organization. Its purpose was clear: to honor the past, serve the present, and celebrate the future. With the structure in place, the group looked to 2024 as the year to prove its staying power.

Highlights of 2024

If 2023 was the Legacy Corps’ debut, then 2024 was its proof of concept. Over the course of the year, the ensemble established itself as a permanent fixture in the Troopers family. Through unique events, community performances, and cross-generational collaboration, the Legacy Corps demonstrated its vitality and creativity.

TroopCon24: A Festival of Family

In June 2024, the Troopers hosted TroopCon24 in Casper, Wyoming—a multi-day reunion and celebration that brought together alumni, current members, and fans. The event was designed not only as a reunion but also as an educational and performance opportunity.

Highlights included:

  • Clinics and Workshops: Alumni taught brass, percussion, and guard clinics to younger members, passing down knowledge accumulated across decades.
  • Panel Discussions: Veterans of the activity shared stories about the early years of DCI, the challenges of national touring, and the traditions that defined the Troopers.
  • Legacy Corps Performance: Serving as the centerpiece of the event, the Legacy Corps performed for a hometown crowd, blending Troopers classics with new material. The performance symbolized how Casper remains the corps’ spiritual home.

For many alumni, TroopCon24 was not only a reunion but a homecoming—a chance to reconnect with the roots of their shared journey.

Troopmas: A Holiday in June

Later that same month, the Legacy Corps embraced its playful side with Troopmas, a holiday-themed celebration held in the middle of summer. Complete with Christmas trees, gift exchanges, and holiday arrangements, the event embodied the corps’ sense of fun and community.

At first glance, the idea seemed unusual—why celebrate Christmas in June? But for members, it was symbolic. Drum corps season often meant missing traditional holidays with family. Troopmas allowed members to reclaim that sense of festivity and joy, creating new memories with their extended Troopers family.

The event also highlighted the Legacy Corps’ ability to think creatively about programming. It wasn’t only about nostalgia—it was about creating fresh traditions that reflected the group’s evolving identity.

Cross-Generational Mentorship

One of the most significant outcomes of 2024 was the mentorship dynamic between alumni and current A Corps members.

  • Shared Rehearsals: During clinics and performances, Legacy Corps members stood side by side with younger performers, offering guidance on everything from musical technique to tour survival skills.
  • Career and Life Advice: Alumni with decades of experience in fields like education, business, and the arts provided mentorship that extended beyond music.
  • Inspiration by Example: Seeing alumni in their 40s, 50s, and 60s still performing at a high level inspired younger members to envision drum corps as a lifelong pursuit.

This mentorship aspect may prove to be one of the Legacy Corps’ most enduring contributions. By blurring the line between “then” and “now,” it ensured that Troopers culture is not only preserved but actively transmitted to the next generation.

Reinforcing the Troopers Identity

Through these events, the Legacy Corps reaffirmed what makes the Troopers unique:

  • A sense of family that transcends age.
  • A culture rooted in patriotism and honor.
  • A willingness to innovate while respecting tradition.

By the end of 2024, it was clear that the Legacy Corps was not a novelty or side project. It was a pillar of the Troopers organization, one that expanded the meaning of what it is to be a Trooper.

2025 – Troopers Legacy Corps Makes Historic SoundSport Debut

A New Program: “Honor”

The centerpiece of the 2025 season is the Legacy Corps’ new production, “Honor.” The title is no accident. It captures the ethos that has always defined the Troopers, from their founding motto—Honor, Loyalty, Dedication—to the patriotic performances that have carried them through decades.

The program is designed to blend tradition with freshness:

  • Musical Selections: Classic Troopers repertoire will be woven with new arrangements, allowing alumni and newcomers alike to perform familiar material while embracing new artistry.
  • Visual Design: Incorporating modern drill techniques alongside traditional formations like the sunburst, the show seeks to demonstrate how the Troopers’ visual identity can evolve without losing its roots.
  • Storytelling: Rather than a competitive “show,” “Honor” is conceived as a thematic journey, one that reflects the values the corps has always championed.

For audiences, “Honor” promises to be both nostalgic and inspiring—a celebration of where the Troopers have been and a vision of where they are going.

Equipment and Technology Upgrades

In 2025, the Legacy Corps is also investing in equipment and digital tools that will elevate its performances and streamline its operations:

  • Percussion Upgrades: New cymbals, gongs, and specialty instruments expand the ensemble’s sonic palette.
  • UDB App Integration: Drill distribution will now be managed digitally through the Ultimate Drill Book app, a technology widely used by competitive corps.
  • Beam Technology: Digital sheet music sharing allows members across the country to rehearse more efficiently, bridging geographical distances.

These innovations ensure the Legacy Corps remains not only a nostalgic project but a modern ensemble capable of growth and excellence.

Indianapolis, IN:  August 3 – August 9, 2025 — The Troopers Legacy Corps (TLC) marked a milestone in its storied history as the ensemble checked in for its very first SoundSport® event on Sunday, August 3rd. With 94 dedicated members in attendance, the day began with excitement and purpose as the group gathered for an intensive rehearsal schedule, practicing from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Days of Dedication

Throughout the first three days, the TLC members had twelve-hour day rehearsals with members worked tirelessly to learn and refine drill and music for their seven-minute performance. Unlike the full-sized DCI field, SoundSport ensembles perform on a 30-yard by 20-yard field, a more intimate space that places a premium on precision and musical impact. For many participants, this marked a return to the thrill of performance, combined with the challenge of mastering a new format.

Taking the Stage in Indianapolis

The Troopers Legacy Corps didn’t stop at rehearsal alone. As part of their SoundSport debut, they had the honor of performing at two iconic Indiana venues:

  • The Indiana State Fair, where they entertained enthusiastic crowds with their trademark blend of musical power and visual presence.
  • Monument Circle in downtown Indianapolis, a storied performance space that added a sense of grandeur to the weekend.

Both performances showcased not only the Corps’ musical excellence but also their commitment to carrying forward the Troopers’ tradition of precision, pride, and showmanship.

A Historic First

This SoundSport event marked the first in the history of the Troopers Legacy Corps. For an organization deeply rooted in Drum Corps International tradition, stepping into SoundSport was both an evolution and a celebration of legacy. The Corps’ ability to adapt to the new performance format while maintaining its distinct identity earned them not just applause from audiences, but also top honors.

Gold Standard Recognition

At the conclusion of their inaugural SoundSport appearance, the Troopers Legacy Corps achieved the highest SoundSport rating of Gold. This recognition underscored the ensemble’s dedication, artistry, and excellence — a fitting tribute to both their rich past and bright future.

Looking Ahead

The Troopers Legacy Corps’ debut in SoundSport represents more than a single performance; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Troopers organization. By engaging alumni and new members alike, the TLC is ensuring that the traditions of discipline, community, and musical excellence continue to inspire audiences for generations to come.  Plans are in the works for the 2026 season.

The Road Ahead – 2026 and Beyond

With the triumphant SoundSport debut in 2025 behind them—and a Gold rating to prove their excellence—the Troopers Legacy Corps now turns its eyes to the future. What lies ahead is not merely a continuation of success, but an opportunity to expand, innovate, and deepen its role within both the Troopers organization and the broader drum corps community.

Building on a Gold Standard

The 2025 season established a powerful foundation. Ninety-four members came together, rehearsed with intensity, performed at iconic Indiana venues, and stepped into the SoundSport arena for the first time. Achieving Gold in their inaugural appearance set a standard that now defines what the Legacy Corps can accomplish.

For 2026 and beyond, the challenge is to build on that momentum—not just by repeating success, but by elevating the experience for members and audiences alike.

Expanding Performances

Plans are already in motion for the Legacy Corps to appear at additional SoundSport showcases and community festivals across the United States. Discussions include potential performances beyond Indianapolis, bringing the Troopers Legacy name to new regions while maintaining a strong presence at DCI’s flagship events.

This expansion ensures the ensemble remains visible year-round, reinforcing the Troopers’ reputation as not only a competitive corps but also a cultural ambassador for the marching arts.

Growing Membership and Inclusion

Recruitment remains a top priority. The 2025 season proved that the Legacy Corps can attract both alumni and newcomers eager to experience the Troopers tradition. Looking ahead, organizers hope to expand membership into the hundreds, making the group one of the largest and most inclusive ensembles in the SoundSport system.

By welcoming alumni, fans, and first-time participants alike, the Legacy Corps continues to redefine what it means to be part of the Troopers family.

Innovating Through Technology

The ensemble will also continue embracing digital tools like the UDB app and Beam technology for drill and music distribution. These innovations allow members scattered across the country to rehearse more effectively before gathering for intensive camps.

By combining tradition with modern efficiency, the Legacy Corps ensures that performances in 2026 and beyond will be not only powerful but also polished and professional.

Long-Term Vision

The broader vision for the Troopers Legacy Corps extends well past 2026. Organizers see the ensemble as a permanent institution—one that complements the junior corps while carving out its own identity.

The long-term goals include:

  • Becoming a fixture of the SoundSport stage, known for both quality and entertainment.
  • Strengthening ties with the A Corps, offering mentorship, financial support, and public visibility.
  • Serving as a model for how alumni and fans can keep drum corps traditions alive across generations.

In this way, the Legacy Corps is not just about preserving history—it is about writing new chapters.

Expanding Inclusion

Unlike many alumni corps limited to former members, the Legacy Corps’ open-door policy redefines what it means to belong. Fans, educators, and enthusiasts who once stood on the sidelines can now step onto the field. This inclusivity transforms the Troopers from a corps into a movement.

Supporting the A Corps

The Legacy Corps provides direct benefits to the junior corps:

  • Volunteer labor at rehearsals and shows.
  • Financial contributions through member dues and fundraising.
  • Mentorship that extends beyond music into personal and professional development.

In this way, the Legacy Corps operates as a supportive partner, strengthening the competitive ensemble while pursuing its own artistic mission.

Inspiring Lifelong Participation

Perhaps the most profound cultural impact is the idea that drum corps is not limited to youth. By showcasing performers in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond, the Legacy Corps proves that the joy of performance transcends age.

For younger members, this is a powerful message: their marching days don’t have to end at 21. For older members, it’s an invitation to relive the thrill of performance while contributing to a larger mission.

Conclusion: A Legacy Carried Forward

The story of the Troopers Legacy Corps is, at its heart, a story about continuity. It is about a corps that once reshaped the marching arts and is now finding new ways to keep that spirit alive.

From its inception in 2018 to its triumphant debut in 2023, its creative expansion in 2024 and 2025, and its ambitious plans for 2026, the Legacy Corps embodies the values that have always defined the Troopers: honor, loyalty, and dedication.

When hundreds of alumni and fans stood shoulder to shoulder at Lucas Oil Stadium, they demonstrated something extraordinary—that drum corps is more than competition. It is heritage, family, and community. The Legacy Corps captured that essence and offered it to a new generation.

As the ensemble looks to the future, the sunburst formation remains the perfect metaphor: a group expanding outward in all directions, radiating light and energy, yet connected at the center by shared identity.

The Troopers once changed the course of drum corps history. With the Legacy Corps, they are ensuring that history is not only remembered but lived, celebrated, and carried forward.