Bandsmen of a U.S. expeditionary detachment stand in formation outside their tented camp, instruments in hand, somewhere in Central America during the late 1920s or early 1930s. The campaign hats, khaki service uniforms, and canvas leggings are characteristic of U.S. Marine Corps and Army field dress of the era, when American forces maintained a presence in Nicaragua to train and support the newly formed Guardia Nacional. Military bands served an important ceremonial and morale function at remote posts, performing for reviews, flag ceremonies, and social gatherings far from home. Project: 218713