Music for Memorial Day from the Marines and Air Force

I wish my readers a somber Memorial Day. After examining the origin and history of Memorial Day last year, I'm returning to military music to observe the holiday with a twist. Watch and listen as I share Luis of Music213's video of 1st Marine Division Band - Disneyland - Memorial Day 2013.

From Camp Pendleton, CA
The 1st Marine Division Band performing at Disneyland's Town Center Square during the Flag Retreat Ceremony on Memorial Day, Monday May 27, 2013.

That was quite upbeat for a serious patriotic holiday that honors the dead, but it's Disneyland, so I shouldn't be surprised. The only music missing was "Taps." For that, I turn to The United States Air Force Band's Memorial Day 2020.

As we head into the Memorial Day weekend, let us reflect on the tremendous price that was paid by the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Through the sounding of Taps, members of The United States Air Force Band solemnly render honor to those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

A long-held musical tradition at military funerals, the music of Taps originated from a Civil War bugle call entitled, “Extinguish Lights”. A plaintive call, the sounding of Taps signals the end of the fallen serviceman’s duty and is the final tribute from a grateful nation.

To those who have given the last full measure of devotion, we honor your service, pay tribute to your lives, and thank you for your selfless sacrifice.

We'd like to thank Mr. Matthew Priest, Director of Culpeper National Cemetery, all of the staff at Culpeper National Cemetery, as well as Ms. Richelle Taylor, Public Affairs Specialist with the Department of Veteran Affair’s National Cemetery Administration, for their help making this tribute possible.

This should look familiar, as it's the original of FOX 17 WXMI Grand Rapids-Kalamazoo-Battle Creek's U.S. Air Force Band: 'Taps', which I used to conclude last year's post. It's good to find the source.

Enjoy the rest of your Memorial Day. I'll be back tomorrow with a post that will still be worth reading in June.