Biography

Command Sergeant Major Julian R. Ayers, Sr. was appointed the fifth Command Sergeant Major of The United States Army Band "Pershing's Own" in September 2019. A native of Washington, D.C., CSM Ayers started his career in the trombone section of the Ceremonial Band and joined the Herald Trumpets in February of 2001. In January 2016 he was appointed Unit Drum Major.

CSM Ayers earned a Bachelor of Music degree from Duquesne University in 1996 and a Master of Music degree from the same institution in 1998. While at Duquesne, he studied with Robert Hamrick and Murray Crewe. He has performed professionally with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and the Wheeling Symphony prior to joining The U.S. Army Band. Significant missions with the Army Band include the opening ceremonies for the Winter Olympic Games in Salt Lake City, five Presidential Inaugurations, Recognition of the 50th Anniversary of the Korean War, and the Rededication of the St. Lawrence Seaway to name just a few.

Military awards earned include the Meritorious Service Medal, 2nd award, the Army Commendation Medal, 4th award, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, 6th award, Global War on Terrorism Medal, and the National Defense Medal.