Our History…
The band began in 1984 when a small group of proud veterans assembled at American Legion Federal Post 509 in Fresno, California, to present a concert commemorating the end of World War II. Most of the veterans who formed the small group had previous experience playing in the military bands and orchestras of the respective branches of the military in which they served.
The “509”, as it was called, was an immediate success and demand grew for additional concerts. The band answered the demand and immediately became a favorite of the community, giving concerts at the Veterans Administration Hospital Facility and appearing at many civic functions throughout the city, including the annual 4th of July Fireworks Show at the Fresno Fairgrounds; area rest homes; and concerts at the American Legion Hall.
With the onset of base realignment and closure (BRAC), a shortage of military bands occurred but the need for military bands persisted. To meet this demand, the band stepped up to the plate and has since been available for military ceremonies throughout the state. Members memorized bugle calls and the specific protocols of each branch of the military; and worked to procure the music necessary to support the various military events. This all volunteer civilian band, many of whom are Veterans, soon found itself deployed to military bases throughout the state of California, playing for dignitaries, Ambassadors, Generals, Admirals, Heads of State, and the active rank and file members of all branches of our country’s military.
The band began in 1984 when a small group of proud veterans assembled at American Legion Federal Post 509 in Fresno, California, to present a concert commemorating the end of World War II. Most of the veterans who formed the small group had previous experience playing in the military bands and orchestras of the respective branches of the military in which they served.
The “509”, as it was called, was an immediate success and demand grew for additional concerts. The band answered the demand and immediately became a favorite of the community, giving concerts at the Veterans Administration Hospital Facility and appearing at many civic functions throughout the city, including the annual 4th of July Fireworks Show at the Fresno Fairgrounds; area rest homes; and concerts at the American Legion Hall.
With the onset of base realignment and closure (BRAC), a shortage of military bands occurred but the need for military bands persisted. To meet this demand, the band stepped up to the plate and has since been available for military ceremonies throughout the state. Members memorized bugle calls and the specific protocols of each branch of the military; and worked to procure the music necessary to support the various military events. This all volunteer civilian band, many of whom are Veterans, soon found itself deployed to military bases throughout the state of California, playing for dignitaries, Ambassadors, Generals, Admirals, Heads of State, and the active rank and file members of all branches of our country’s military.