By Vita Duva, Correspondent
The 75th Anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. In light of this historic event, the 75th Anniversary Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade and Ceremony kicked off in Waikiki, Hawaii, where the Monroe Township High School Marching Band and Color Guard traveled to perform as ambassadors for the state of New Jersey and the veterans of the USS New Jersey.
The parade, which takes place annually in Hawaii, is the official parade of the Pearl Harbor commemoration. This year’s 75th commemoration brought more than 3,000 parade participants together, from marching bands to junior and active duty military units to cultural and civic organizations.
The Band, which is under the direction of Alfred Hadinger and Martin Griffen, was chosen by the parade committee for the honor.
In addition to marching in the parade, the band joined the U.S. Marine Corps Pacific Band, and other bands, in a mass performance of “God Bless America” at the Parade’s opening ceremony.
Mr. Hadinger explained that while the students were aware of the honor of being invited to perform at such a significant event, it was recognition from unlikely sources that helped put these performances into perspective for the band members.
“Whether it was in the airport or while enjoying a meal, the students were routinely thanked by citizens and veterans alike for participating in the Pearl Harbor remembrance events,” Mr Hadinger said.
The director went on to note that the opportunity to speak with Pearl Harbor survivors and visit the USS Arizona Memorial were two of the most meaningful experiences of the week.
“It is one thing to read about history, but it was evident how moved our band members were once they had the opportunity to interact with living history,” Mr. Hadinger recalled of the emotional trip. “Their performances in Hawaii, coupled with other Pearl Harbor remembrance events, are experiences that will last a lifetime for these students.”
Led by drum majors Mitchell Joseph, 17, and Alexa Quarino, 16, the band also performed at the USS Missouri, and was the only marching band from New Jersey to perform at the event.
“We are honored to have been a part of this historic week,” Mr. Hadinger said. “We would like to acknowledge the support of our board of education, district administration and the Monroe Township High School Music Parents Association, without whom this trip would not have been possible.”
