Delaware National Guard

Delaware National Guard

287th tuned into town’s patriotism during 350th anniversary celebration
Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Deborah Welch

The 287th Army Band, Delaware Army National Guard, warmed the hearts of residents during a concert performance on Sunday evening, October 7th at Battery Park in Old New Castle.

Sgt. Mark Pulliam sang "God Bless the USA in honor of his father, a World War II veteran.
In celebration of the town’s 350^th anniversary, the band performed patriotic music. The patriotic tunes were played in remembrance of the town's history, as a tribute to all Americans, and in respect for our Nation in light of recent events.

Though a nippy autumn breeze may have kept some residents from attending the concert, a fairly large audience did show. The performance included various renditions by composers such as Glen Miller, Irving Berlin, John Philip Sousa, and the more contemporary Lee Greenwood.

Sgt. Mark Pulliam sang Greenwood's "God Bless the USA" to a standing ovation. Pulliam dedicated the song to his parents who were in the audience. His father, a World War II veteran, was recognized with warm applause. Both parents expressed pride in their son's performance and service to his country.

Maj. Gen. Frank D. Vavala, Adjutant General of the Delaware National Guard, and his wife also attended the performance. Maj. Gen. Vavala’s opening remarks reminded the crowd of the many young men and women have given their lives to secure the freedoms we all enjoy every day. That message is on all of our hearts now, especially in the wake of the recent attacks against America.

Concert photo gallery:

Left: 1st Sgt Jim Snyder and other Clarinet players sound off. Below: CW4 Ed Hockersmith conducts the band's performance.

Sgt. Marin Gemill
on the mallets.
Sgt. Mary Kate Hall and
Sgt. 1st Class Mary Righos
on the Flute.
Sgt. David Halley and Sgt.
Al Tweddle on the French Horn.

Sgt. Ed Wirth on the Bari Sax.
Staff Sgt. Mike Jochen and Staff Sgt.
Greg Calloway on percussion.

Sgt. Dean Price and Sgt. 1st Class Kevin
Snyder on Clarinet.
Spc. Jon Lee on the trumpet.