Hawthorne, NJ · DRUMCORPS.NET PROFILE
Hawthorne, New Jersey · DCI All-Age · Organized March 20, 1946 ·
From returning servicemen to a drum-corps institution
The corps’ history dates its organization to March 20, 1946, by former St. George Cadets and recent veterans, including Jim Costello, Bob Costello, John McAuliffe and George Hayek. James Costello Jr.’s long leadership became central to the organization. Its first field competition in the familiar Latin-style uniform was July 20, 1947, in Trenton. The archive credits James Costello Sr. with much of the uniform concept, combining sombrero, white shirt, red sash and black bell-bottom trousers. The competitive corps now uses updated looks while retaining the traditional uniform for selected occasions and through alumni performance. Official history.
The same timeline records a first American Legion national title in 1951, seven consecutive Legion titles from 1958–1964, a first DCA championship in 1970, women entering the guard in 1982 and the alumni corps debut in 1994. In 2021 the corps celebrated its 75th year with its tenth DCA championship. Historical milestones.
The homepage reports ten DCA championships, sixteen American Legion national titles and six undefeated seasons. Such totals refer to particular sanctioning bodies and should be kept separate from later DCI medals. Official title summary.
2026: Entwine and a decorated anniversary
The corps’ post-season account describes Entwine as a spider-and-prey production, using web-like shapes and mounting theatrical tension. It reports second overall at the DCI All-Age championships, together with Best Color Guard, Honor Guard, Drum Major and Percussion honors. Al Katz received Director of the Year. These awards are individually named recognitions, not four overall championship titles. Corps championship report.
Safety and reporting
Research notes
Sources
- Official history
- Organization and title summary
- 2026 silver and awards
- September 2026 leadership announcement
- 2026 member handbook
- Safety and age guidance
- Volunteering
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