Master Gunnery Sergeant Joshua Dannemiller graduated recruit training on Parris Island in October 2003 as a Private First Class. In November 2003, upon completion of Marine Combat Training, he reported for duty at Marine Barracks Washington D.C. as a contrabass bugler with “The Commandant’s Own” United States Marine Drum & Bugle Corps.
As a contrabass bugler, Master Gunnery Sergeant Dannemiller served as a section leader and soloist. He performed in hundreds of ceremonies and concerts across the globe to include: joint performances with New York Philharmonic, “A Capitol Fourth” concert on the U.S. Capitol steps, on Mt. Suribachi for the 65th Anniversary of the flag raising at Iwo Jima and several memorial ceremonies of the Battle at Belleau Wood.
In 2010, Master Gunnery Sergeant Dannemiller was selected as the Ceremonial Field Crew Staff Noncommissioned Officer in Charge and led Marines of the drum & bugle corps through a successful parade season, performing in front of the President of the United States, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, and several other high-ranking officials and foreign dignitaries. In 2011, Master Gunnery Sergeant Dannemiller was selected as the Low Brass Instructor of “The Commandant’s Own" and served as the Primary Brass Instructor from 2012-2017. He was selected as the Staff Noncommissioned Officer Director for Friday Evening Parades in 2010, 2013, and 2015. He also conducted the “Holidays in Red” concerts in 2015. In 2016, Master Gunnery Sergeant Dannemiller was selected as the Assistant Drum Major and in May 2022 was appointed as the Drum Major of the United States Marine Drum & Bugle Corps.
Master Gunnery Sergeant Dannemiller’s personal decorations include the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal and the Meritorious Service Medal.