Precision, Purpose, and Perseverance: Business Lessons from the Silent Drill Platoon
As we return from the Memorial Day weekend, I hope you had time not only to rest and recharge but also to reflect on the deeper meaning of the day. Living in a country that grants us the freedom to pursue our entrepreneurial passions is a privilege - and a responsibility.
Over the weekend, I watched a video that left a powerful impression on me. It featured the United States Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon performing a precision rifle drill in Times Square during Fleet Week New York 2025. If you have never seen them, the Silent Drill Platoon (also known as the Marching Twenty-Four) is a 24-member unit that executes a breathtaking routine with absolute coordination and zero spoken commands. Watching them perform amidst the noise and distractions of Times Square reminded me of some essential truths about business, leadership, and growth.
Stay Focused Despite the Noise
Times Square is the epitome of chaos: flashing billboards, honking taxis, sirens wailing, and crowds pushing in all directions. Yet the Marines remained completely undistracted. Their attention was laser-sharp. For business owners, this is a powerful metaphor. The marketplace is loud. Competitors, economic trends, social media noise, even well-meaning advisors: there is always something vying for your attention. But to grow, you must learn to filter the noise and stay focused on your mission.
Don’t Stop Just Because Others Applaud
Partway through the routine, the crowd erupted in applause - before the Marines were done. They didn’t flinch. They didn’t bow. They didn’t acknowledge the praise. They kept executing until the very last movement was complete. In business, it’s tempting to celebrate too early. A big contract, a social media milestone, a glowing testimonial - they’re important. But success isn’t measured in moments. It’s measured in consistency. Stay the course, and finish what you started.
Ignore the Detractors
At one point, someone in the crowd began shouting what seemed to be a protest. The platoon didn’t react. They didn’t acknowledge the interruption. In business, there will always be critics. Detractors may question your pricing, your decisions, your direction. Some might even aim to undermine your success. Let them shout. Your job is to keep marching.
Every Role Matters
During the performance, individual Marines occasionally stepped into the spotlight to execute a flourish or toss. But the others didn’t move. They held their positions with pride and discipline, because their stillness was as essential to the performance as the spotlighted action. The same is true in business. Not every team member will be center stage at the same time. But everyone’s contribution matters. Growth comes when every person understands and values their role in the bigger picture.
A Final Thought
The discipline, unity, and clarity of purpose demonstrated by the Silent Drill Platoon offer a powerful lens through which to view our own businesses. Growth doesn’t come from scattered effort or distracted leadership. It comes from focus, discipline, and an unshakeable commitment to your mission - despite the noise, the cheers, or the criticism.
Let’s keep marching forward.
- JoAnna Kelso
