Sousa originated an important annual tradition and he was proud of being in the Navy

Before Sousa, the Marine Band didn't go on tour. In 1891, he convinced President Benjamin Harrison to approve the Marine Band's first-ever concert trip, which launched the custom of a yearly tour. Since then, with the exception of times of war, the tour has been held annually. President Benjamin Harrison approved Sousa's plan for the Marine Bands' inaugural marching band tour, which began the Marine band's annual tour tradition. The journey continued over the years with the exception of the world war.

Sousa conducted his own band in concerts despite having been released from active duty and wearing his Navy uniform. Additionally, he would wear it for appearances in public. Although he was promoted to lieutenant captain in the Naval Reserve, he never returned to active duty. For his military service, he was also awarded the World War I Victory Medal and was made a Veteran Companion of the Military Order of Foreign Wars. The American Legion was where he belonged.