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


In celebration of
the town’s 350th 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.

Sgt. Mark Pulliam sang
"God Bless the USA in honor of his father, a World War II
veteran.

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:
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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. |
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