Army band visits Aberdeen school in Veterans Day ceremony

Soldiers from a woodwinds sections played classics for students and guests

Army bandsmen came to St. Mary School on Thursday afternoon in a Veterans Day ceremony honoring those who served in the military, speaking to students and performing.

It was a good opportunity to speak with students, said Army Lt. Col. Jennifer Bocanegra, a public affairs officer accompanying the woodwind quartet from 1st Corps, out of Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

“It’s a huge honor. This is actually the first time I’ve gotten to talk about veterans to a group of students,” Bocanegra said in an interview. “It’s a unique experience that I’m grateful to have the opportunity to do.”

Organized by St. Mary teacher Richard Villar, students helped make the assembly happen.

“It was student-led. It was all about the kids,” Villar said.”I’m really proud of all the hard work they put into it.”

The ceremony saw a music performance by the quartet, playing songs such as the service anthems and the Band of Brothers theme. Presenters also recognized veterans from each of the services during the ceremony.

Contact Senior Reporter Michael S. Lockett at 757-621-1197 or mlockett@thedailyworld.com.

Students at St. Mary’s School gather for a Veterans Day assembly on Nov. 9. (Michael S. Lockett / The Daily World)

Michael S. Lockett / The Daily World Lt. Col. Jennifer Bocanegra, an Army public affairs officer with 1st Corps, speaks during a Veterans Day ceremony at St. Mary School on Nov. 9.