ST. JOHN’S REGIMENTAL BAND REPRESENTS THE DISTRICT AT 2022 PEARL HARBOR MEMORIAL PARADE IN WAIKIKI

In Dec. 2022, St. John’s Regimental Band was selected by the Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade Committee as “an outstanding ensemble which has a history of excellence that represents the spirit of American youth and good citizenship.” The band was then invited to perform in the 2022 Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade as an official ambassador from the District of Columbia. The 2022 parade recognizes this day in history as an official part of the World War II 80th Anniversary Commemoration.

Each year on Dec. 7, the Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade in Waikiki, Hawaii, provides a meaningful living memorial tribute to our veterans and the men and women who serve in our military. The annual event features World War II veterans, marching bands, choirs, military platoons, and other officials representing states from across the country to share the spirit of America with the island’s citizens and visitors.

To complement the exciting announcement, a St. John’s alumnus and former member of the Regimental Band generously donated $30,000 to assist with the school’s travel expenses. A great honor for St. John’s, members of the Regimental Band and Color Guard began their rehearsal journey in June 2022, meeting every Wednesday to prepare for the parade and continue the legacy of excellence in the arts at SJC. “Participating in such a special event to recognize and remember the history of our country is an incredible honor for St. John’s. I am so proud of our student-musicians who worked so hard over the last several months to march with distinction during this once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Ken Hammann, St. John’s director of bands and performing arts.

During their visit to Hawaii, the cadets also visited the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial, Pali Lookout, the Dole Plantation, and the U.S.S. Missouri.