July 4th ‘Tattoo’ gearing up                             Mike A. Glasch Leader Staff

The U.S. Army Soldier Support Institute is finalizing plans to host Fort Jackson’s largest event of the year. More than 50,000 people are expected to visit on the Fourth of July for the annual Torchlight Tattoo at Hilton Field. The festivities will begin at 7:30 p.m. with a concert by the 282nd U.S. Army “Victory” Band. The Tattoo ceremony follows at 8:30 p.m., with a fireworks display beginning approximately one hour later. Visitors can bring food, lawn chairs and blankets. No alcoholic beverages, pets, individual fireworks or barbecue grills will be allowed at the event. The Tattoo ceremony advances a military tradition with roots back to the Netherlands and the British Army of William the Third. Some 300 years ago, when King William’s troops were housed in Dutch villages, drummers were sent through the village streets to call the soldiers home from the inns where they were enjoying the evening’s entertainment. The drummers would signal local innkeepers that “beer call” was over. The Dutch words for “turn off the taps” were “doe den tap toe.” But the troops heard only “tap toe” which in time was shortened to “Tattoo.” As the custom grew, drums were joined by fifes and other instruments, and soon full bands played for the garrison. The military tattoo was born. Editor’s note: The Leader will print a special “Torchlight Tattoo” insert in the June 26 or July 3 edition, with more details about the event, including a map, parking and shuttle information, and other activities that may be added.