Every year, Cathedral’s Pride of The Irish Marching Band participates in two special parades, the Veterans Day and St. Patrick’s Day parade.
On November 11th, Pride of The Irish Marching Band performed in a parade that took place downtown by the War Memorial. This particular parade took place to publicly celebrate those Americans who have served in the U.S. military.
Attending and performing at this honorable event vividly exemplifies honor, gratitude, and respect. Their performance demonstrated discipline and school spirit, while also reminding the crowd about the importance of veterans. It’s important to remember those who have served for the country, as it brought great freedoms. Veterans made many unimaginable sacrifices, including putting their lives at risk, all to protect the nation and its people. Publicly performing in a parade is one of the many ways Cathedral can show gratitude and appreciation.
This special opportunity to participate in the Veterans Day parade is an annual celebration. Band Director, Ian Callen said, “It was rewarding and a good opportunity for the band to show their hard work off. It’s also a great opportunity for bonding and fellowship among the students.”
The parade consists of songs associated with various branches of the military: Marines, Army and the Air Force. Between each repetition of the service songs, the drumline plays “Cadence” which allows the wind players to rest for 30-60 seconds.
Preparation leading up to the Veterans Day parade, consists of practicing a month prior to the event. Cathedral Pride of The Irish Marching Band practiced 1-2 times a week leading up to November 11. The parade step-off begins at Noon, and is routed on Michigan & Pennsylvania St. and is stationed around the Legion Mall and Indiana War Memorial.
This parade serves a chance to exemplify reverence, praise and recognition. Within veterans and the community, this special day is seen as a legacy. It is a day to reflect and deeply share our visible appreciation within the community and the state of Indiana. This legacy is to continue shedding respect, gratitude and patriotism within the country.
