|
|
Home > Fact Sheets > History of the Band of the Mid-Atlantic
HISTORY OF THE BAND OF THE MID-ATLANTIC
Posted 1/22/2009
Printable Fact Sheet
The Air National Guard Band of the Mid-Atlantic was originally formed on August 2, 1942 in Rapid City, South Dakota as the 53rd Army Air Forces Band. Federal recognition was extended on April 21, 1949. The succeeding years saw numerous name changes and reassignments: the 553rd Army Band, 553rd Army Air Forces Band, 53rd Wing Band, and most recently the 553rd Air Force Band, Pennsylvania Air National Guard.
On June 8, 2000, the band became known as the "Air National Guard Band of the Mid-Atlantic," reflecting its expanded geographic area of responsibility for support in five states: Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, western New York and New Jersey.
A traditional Air National Guard squadron, the band consists of thirty-six members, all National Guard members and with civilian careers, who meet one weekend a month to rehearse and perform. Its ranks are filled with professional musicians, educators, students, administrators, salesmen, builders and other professionals. The band has received many awards, including the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award and Pennsylvania Governor's Unit Citation.
Years of critically acclaimed performances, workshops and ceremonies have earned the Band of the Mid-Atlantic a reputation as one of the finest bands in the Air National Guard. The band's annual concert tours have taken it overseas to Germany, Holland, France, the Azores, Antigua-West Indies, Norway, England and Denmark.
| |
|
|
|
|
