Massing of the Colors is a patriotic ceremony honoring those who have served in the United States of America, as well as honoring and encouraging the youth of today to continue the patriotic tradition.

This annual event that honors and brings awareness to military tradition, will take place Feb. 21 in the Stadium High School Gymnasium. Stadium High School is located at 111 North E St. in Tacoma.

The I Corps Army Band has become a staple at this event, and that tradition will continue with the band performing at this year's event once again.

The involvement of the I Corps Army Band helps to forge bonds between the Pacific Northwest Community and the United States Army.

In honor of George Washington's Birthday (Feb. 22), the I Corps Army Band will be playing their inspiring selection of music celebrating Washington, this Nation's first patriot in the long line of patriots who have served this country honorably.

Massing of the Colors began in 1919 by military officers who served in WWI. In 1923, the Military Order of the World War assumed responsibility for the Massing of the Colors nationwide and still has that responsibility across the Nation.

The Puget Sound Chapter of the Military Order of World Wars (MOWW) continues to sponsor this ceremony locally.

The event's Grand Marshal will once again be Ret. Maj. Gen. John Hemphill, who is a proponent for the Puget Sound military community.

Armed Services Auxiliary organizations, veteran and/or civic groups, nonprofits, emergency responders, Boy/Girl Scout organizations, Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) cadets and any other interested organizations are encouraged to register.

This year's winning youth or adult organization has the opportunity to win a $500, $250 or $100 prize.

The only requirement, to be eligible for these prizes, is to have at least 50 supporting members of an organization attend (attending friends and family members count towards this number).

No host refreshments, sponsored by NJROTC cadets, will be available at Stadium High School during the event.

Signing up this year will be a lot easier, due to the new Massing of Colors registration website at www.mocus.us.

Organizations, as defined below, may participate for organizational attendance rewards based upon the number of members (friends, family, supporters) of the organization attending. Each member and supporter of an organization with a participating flag unit will be allowed to vote upon arrival at the hallway leading to the spectator seating area. VOTING WILL STOP AT 3 P.M. SHARP WHEN THE BAND STARTS PLAYING

ORGANIZATION CATEGORIES
1. Youth organizations with more than 50 percent of members in grades below high school.
2. Youth and young adult organizations with members in high school and higher.
3. Primarily adult organizations to include churches, veteran service and community.

GENERAL
1. Must have a flag unit participating.
2. All persons born count for attendance.
3. Organization must have 50 attending to compete for awards. Flag unit counts as two.

ORGANIZATIONAL ATTENDANCE REWARDS for each category: 1st place $500, 2nd place $250, 3rd place $100

Send in completed copy of the application by Feb. 12 to ensure a spot. Participants must submit the application on time to participate.

To submit an application form, please request the application form (or register online) from Col. Carroll Dickson, 253.566.5870 or carrolldickson@comcast.net.