The Sound of a Nation: The Washington Tattoo Story
The Sound of a Nation: The Washington Tattoo Story  
Podcast: AUSA’s Army Matters Podcast
Published On: Wed Jun 03 2026
Description: In this episode of Army Matters, LTG (Ret.) Leslie Smith sits down with SGM (Ret.) Mark Reilly, founder of The Washington Tattoo, a large-scale musical production designed to be a unifying voice at the intersection of music, history, and national identity. What began as a vision to create world-class performances has grown into a platform that supports servicemembers, veterans, first responders, and their families—particularly those facing the effects of post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injury.  Reilly shares how his background with the Army’s Old Guard shaped The Washington Tattoo, explains what a military tattoo is, and reveals the unexpected healing power of music.   The Washington Tattoo will perform in DC July 17-18. Find out more at: https://www.thewashingtontattoo.com Guest:  SGM Mark Reilly, U.S. Army Retired, President and CEO, The Washington Tattoo Also Happening: The Warrior Games The Warrior Games is an annual event, first held in 2010, that celebrates the resiliency and dedication of military service members. The Warrior Games will be livestreamed on June 13-20th from San Antonio, TX. Click below to learn more.  Link: https://dodwarriorgames.com/  Has a member of the Army positively changed your life? Now is your chance to thank them publicly with a shoutout via our Hooah Hotline and have it possibly appear on an upcoming episode of AUSA’s Army Matters podcast! AUSA’s Army Matters podcast can also be heard on Wreaths Across America Radio on Monday at 8 pm Eastern. You can find Wreaths Across America Radio on the iHeart Radio app, the Audacy app, and the TuneIn app. Search the word Wreath.  Donate: If you are interested in supporting AUSA’s educational programs, such as this podcast, please visit www.ausa.org/donate.  Feedback: How are we doing? Email us at podcast@ausa.org.  Disclaimer: AUSA’s Army Matters podcast primary purpose is to entertain. The podcast does not constitute advice or services. While guests are invited to listen, listeners please note that you are not being provided professional advice from the podcast or the guests. The views and opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect the views of AUSA.