While traveling to various cities across the nation,

While traveling to various cities across the nation, the Marines with the Marine Corps Mounted Color Guard from Barstow, Calif., begin their days in the pre-dawn hours preparing their palomino mustangs for the day ahead. The Marines of the color guard primp the horses and themselves before each performance. They are also responsible for warming up, exercising, and familiarizing their horses in the new environment. Carrying colors in one hand and reins in the other, the riders remain steady as they march in unison with their horses. In addition to grooming the animals, their manes and tails, and cleaning their hooves, Marines also saddle the horses with polished leather bridles and harnesses.