Official Biography
Bandmaster
MSgt Frederick Kern

Master Sergeant Frederick Kern enlisted in the Marine Corps in October of 2003.  After completing entry-level training, he reported to Marine Corps Base Quantico as a guitar instrumentalist with the Quantico Marine Band. During his tour, he performed in the jazz combo, rock band and concert band while assisting in the training and sound reinforcement sections.
 
     In the fall of 2006, Sergeant Kern received orders to Task Force National Capital Region (TFNCR) in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Sergeant Kern served as the section leader of the 2nd Platoon, 2nd Section. TFNCR deployed to Iraq in October of 2007, conducting security operations out of Forward Operating Base Grizzly and Camp Ramadi.
 
     In August 2008, Sergeant Kern reported to Marine Band San Diego, Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) San Diego as a guitar instrumentalist. After completing the Sound Reinforcement Course in Little Creek, Virginia he served as the assistant Small Ensemble Leader leading the rhythm section and sound reinforcement team.  In March of 2010, he was promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant.
 
     In August of 2011, Staff Sergeant Kern reported to the Quantico Marine Band to serve as the platoon sergeant and assistant Small Ensemble Leader until April 2014 when he received orders for recruiting duty.
 
     After completing the Basic Recruiters Course, MCRD San Diego, he reported to Recruiting Station Orlando, Substation Port Richey, FL. Staff Sergeant Kern served as a canvassing recruiter for Permanent Contact Station Brooksville. In October 2016, he completed the Recruiting Staff Noncommissioned Officer in Charge (SNCOIC) Course, Parris Island, SC, and was assigned to Recruiting Substation Clearwater, FL as the SNCOIC.  In July 2017, he was promoted to the rank of Gunnery Sergeant.
 
     In October 2017, Gunnery Sergeant Kern reported to MCRD San Diego to serve as the Small Ensemble Leader with Marine Band San Diego.  After completing the Unit Leader Course, Little Creek, VA, he was assigned to the 2d Marine Division Band where he served as the Small Ensemble Leader. He was promoted to his current rank of Master Sergeant in January 2023 and now serves as the Senior Enlisted, Bandmaster for Marine Band San Diego.
 
    Master Sergeant Kern's personal awards include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement medal, Army Achievement medal, Armed Forces Medal and Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.