Lance Corporal John D. Shirley, of Louisville, is currently enrolled at the Naval School of Music to train as an instrumentalist in the U.S. Marine Corps Music Program.

Lance Corporal Shirley graduated from Massena Central School District where he performed on euphonium in the Concert Band and valve trombone in the Jazz Ensemble. During his time in high school, LCpl Shirley was a member the St. Lawrence County Music Educators Association All-County Band and All-County Jazz Band as well as the New York State Student Music Association Area Band and All-State Band.

After high school, he continued his education at SUNY Potsdam's The Crane School of Music, where he graduated with a Bachelor's in Performance. While in his undergraduate studies, LCpl Shirley performed in the Wind Ensemble, Wind Symphony, Concert Band, Brass Quintet and the Tuba-Euphonium Ensemble. After graduating from Crane School of Music, he went on to pursue his Master's in Euphonium Performance at Fredonia School of Music.

During his time there, he performed in the Wind Symphony Concert Band and Tuba-Euphonium Quartet. After graduating from Fredonia, LCpl John D. Shirley was recruited out of Marine Recruiting Potsdam, 1st Marine Corps District.

“Overall, my experience at NAVSOM has been professional and enjoyable. Both the instructors and the students are motivated and talented in their respective areas of expertise. I am currently getting a first-class education that will prepare me to enter the fleet bands. I have enjoyed my time here and am thankful for the skills I am learning, both musical and in life," stated Shirley.