WASHINGTON -- United States Senator Mary Landrieu, D-La., today congratulated the Grambling State University Tiger Marching Band for being selected to perform in the 56th Inaugural Parade. The Tiger Marching Band, representing Louisiana, will join groups from all 50 states as they march from the Capitol to the White House on Inauguration Day.

"I am thrilled that the fine students of Grambling State University have been chosen from among well over a thousand applicants to participate in this historic inauguration parade," Sen. Landrieu said. "The Tiger Marching Band has a remarkable opportunity to share in an important piece of history, and I am confident they will represent the state of Louisiana well. I look forward to welcoming the group to Washington in January."

This year, 1,382 organizations applied to participate in the Inaugural Parade, while past years have only seen between 300 and 400 applicants. The Armed Forces Inaugural Committee (AFIC) took the applications and then assisted the Presidential Inaugural Committee in reviewing them. A group of experienced military musicians also used their expertise in the presentation skills of marching bands, musical acts and drill teams to help the Presidential Inaugural Committee make its selections.

"We are elated to be ambassadors of goodwill in the Nation's Capital for the state of Louisiana and for Grambling State University," said Tiger Marching Band Director Larry Pannell. "We are excited to be a part of history, and excited to be the band chosen from the state of Louisiana to participate in the Inaugural Parade. Many other bands may receive a historic opportunity like this one after us, but none before us."

About 200 band members from Grambling State University will be marching in the parade, joining other military bands, high school and college bands, service organizations, law enforcement and first responders.

The Grambling Tiger Marching Band has played in a number of countries, including Africa, Korea and Cuba. They regularly play at major sporting events and parades.

All participants in the Inaugural Parade are responsible for paying for their own lodging and transportation to and from Washington, D.C. The Committee has been working closely with area governments and civic organizations to facilitate access to affordable accommodations.