To beat a retreat - Beat a

These original ceremonies have evolved to become what is now a musical pageant that is the closing element of the Commanding Officer's formal evening where he invites guests to the Officers Mess followed by Beating Retreat.

They will also send out a pre-retreat survey to solicit thoughts and feelings about uncomfortable issues.

Roberts, an officer in , asking him to do something spectacularly creative and eventful for Elizabeth's visit.

To implies inflicting repeated blows as punishment, to show superior strength, or the like: to thrash an opponent.