WASHINGTON, D.C. – Flags waved from outstretched arms and the applause of tens of thousands of spectators filled the air as Virgin Islanders led the nation’s Independence Day parade down Constitution Avenue in Washington, D.C.
The 73rd Army Band from the U.S. Virgin Islands joined the 257th Army Band from the D.C. National Guard to serve as the lead element for the 236th anniversary of the United States’ Fourth of July celebration.
Setting the pace for the parade in the 97 degree heat was Sgt. 1st Class Monet Davis, drum major for the combined band. Her baton rhythmically set the cadence for the march as she led them down the avenue. Davis knew the historic impact of the day.
“To have most of my unit in the parade and in the band, and for me to be the drum major, and Chief Warrant Officer Juan Harrigan to be the commander of that band – it spoke volumes to me,” Davis said. “It was a once in a lifetime event.”
This is the first time in history that a V.I. National Guard band participated in the nation’s Independence Day parade. And adding in that Virgin Islanders played lead roles, as the unit drum major and commander, makes it even more significant.
“I was scared and excited at the same time,” Davis said of her historic involvement. “This was really significant for us.”
Davis also shared the unique experience with special friends. “I made sure that retired Master Sgt. Wilbur Hendricks was able to march because he was my first sergeant when he was active,” Davis said.
Other members of the V.I. contingent spoke about the significance of the day.
“It was an amazing feeling to be a part of the nation’s Independence Day parade,” Staff Sgt. Lurlene Gerard said. “To see my commander and first sergeant lead the parade was simply magnificent!”
Gerard, a squad leader and clarinet player in the band, said this was definitely a memorable day. “The amount of people that cheered and showed their appreciation for what we do will be forever etched in my mind,” Gerard sad.
“Knowing that my service and commitment to this country is appreciated makes me feel honored to serve in our military.”
The combined band moved with precision down the historic parade route, all with the Washington Monument towering in the background.
“This has been an amazing experience,” said Staff Sgt. Kevré Hendricks. “Two excellent military bands joined together plus the drum major and commander both being from the Virgin Islands. Historic!”
The band’s day did not end with the conclusion of the parade. They packed up and shuttled off to Reston, Va., where they wowed the crowd with performances from a combined concert band with the 257th Army Band, that group’s Tactical Sax quartet and the Brigadier Brass Ensemble, and the 73rd Army Band’s Steel Drum and Calypso Ensembles.
The 73rd Army Band will continue their groundbreaking tour in Washington, D.C., and surrounding areas with the following performances:
– Friday at 7 p.m., Calvert Marine Museum, Solomon’s Island, Md.
– Saturday at 7 p.m., National Harbor, Md.
For more information, contact Army Sgt. Athneil Thomas at 643-8168.
