Since this concert fell between to military type holidays, it was decided to invite an active military person from each branch (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard) to participate in the concert.
We had Sgt. Major Dusty Reynolds (30 yrs. veteran) from the U. S. Army, Chief Petty Office Christopher Zeigler form the U. S. Navy, Sergeant Curtis Jones from the Marines, Col. Glenn Taylor from the U. S. Air Force, and BM1 Shawn Sappington from the U. S. Coast Guard. Each were in dress uniform with medals and ribbons.
Our band president purchased each branch's flag and the fun began at the beginning of the concert when Captain Curtis Jones presented the U. S. Flag for the playing of the National Anthem. It was so quiet with the 600+ people attending that you actually could have a pin drop!
Having all five branches with their flags in unusual to see at one time. Only at Presidential innaugurals and funerals do you typically see all five together. So this made the event even more special. And probably some people had no idea what the branch flags looked like in person.
The second to the last song had all five hymns for the branches. The five military men came to the front of the audience section with their flag. When they hymn was played they raised their flag and did a figure "8" with it. People in the audience who either served or currently serving in that branch or have a friend or family member were asked to stand at that time.
The final number was "Stars and Stripes Forever". All five men were now on stage in front of the band. When the last strain was played and the confetti cannons were fired, all five military men saluted the audience.
Our band director is retired U. S. Air Force and he now had his military uniform on and turned to salute the audience.
There were definitely tears in many people's eyes this night for this celebration of our military people.
Next year we're considering adding the MIA/POW flag to the concert!
Following the concert, the band celebrated its 6th birthday with a reception for all band members. 
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