The President's Own A long and distinguished association with the presidency has honored the Marine Band. There is a sense of family among band members toward the presidents and their families,and the feeling is mutual. On one occasion during the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln appeared outside during a Marine Band concert and the audience clapped and clamored for a speech. The president retreated inside saying,"I wish they would just let me sit out there quietly, and enjoy the music." "When I leave this job, I'll miss a lot of things about Washington and the White House a few things I won't. But I'll really miss the Marine Band." President Bill Clinton "Your music inspired me and often made me shed a tear of gratitude for those who serve the nation in uniform." President George Bush