Arranging Instructor
Staff Sergeant Seth E. Almond
Marine Detachment Naval School of Music
Staff Sergeant Almond was born and in Memphis, TN and he enlisted in the Marine Corps in June 2016. After completing recruit training at MCRD Parris Island, SC and Marine Combat Training at Camp Lejeune, NC, he reported to the Naval School of Music in Virginia Beach, VA for “A” school training as a Basic Musician and earned the Military Occupational Specialty of 5524 Musician.
In April 2017, upon graduation from the Basic Music Course, Lance Corporal Almond was assigned to the Quantico Marine Band in Quantico, VA for duty as a Trombone Instrumentalist. While there, he was promoted to Corporal in February 2018 and to Sergeant in July 2020. During his tour, Sergeant Almond performed with the Quantico Marine Band’s Ceremonial Band, Concert Band, Brass Quintet, Brass Band, and Popular Music Group and for audiences along the East Coast of the United States and Finland. Additionally, he served in the billets of Acting Enlisted Conductor, Assistant Enlisted Conductor, Music Library Chief, and Trombone Section Leader.
In October 2021, Sergeant Almond received orders to the 2d Marine Division Band in Camp Lejeune, NC to serve as a Trombone Instrumentalist. During his tour, Sergeant Almond performed with the Ceremonial Band, Concert Band, and Brass Quintet for audiences along the East Coast of the United States as well as Belgium and France. Additionally, he served in the billets of Platoon Sergeant and Staff Arranger.
In January 2024, Sergeant Almond received orders to the Unit Leader Course at the Naval School of Music in Virginia Beach, VA. In August 2024, Staff Sergeant Almond was promoted to his current rank. After graduating from the Unit Leader Course in August 2024, Staff Sergeant Almond received orders to his current assignment at Marine Detachment, Naval School of Music in Virginia Beach, VA to serve as the Arranging Instructor for the Unit Leader Course at the Naval School of Music. Staff Sergeant Almond also fulfills the duties of Suicide Prevention Program Officer and Student Watch Bill Coordinator.
Staff Sergeant Almond’s personal awards include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. He holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Composition from Berklee College of Music.