The Scarlet Regiment Band of San Benito High School has been
asked to participate in the 2011 New York City Veterans Day Parade,
an honor bestowed on two schools in California, Director James
Zuniga said.
The Scarlet Regiment Band of San Benito High School has been asked to participate in the 2011 New York City Veterans Day Parade, an honor bestowed on two schools in California, Director James Zuniga said.
The 92nd parade will also commemorate the 10th anniversary of Sept. 11 and the World Trade Center, according to the letter received by the band dated Nov. 29.
The band was chosen after sending an application to United War Veterans Council in October. In the letter, the council praised the band for its work.
“The committee has selected your band because of your reputation for fostering personal growth and development through music, your incredible style and talent and your respect for the flag,” the letter states.
The quick response was a welcoming surprise for Zuniga.
“It’s huge – it’s immense,” Zuniga said, “to know that someone somewhere out of this community appreciates what we are doing. It blows me away.”
The band is still trying to finalize details of the trip, but Zuniga knows the route, from Times Square to Central Park, and the song the band will play.
Zuniga chose Joyce’s 71st New York Regiment March because of its difficulties.
“Next school year, I’ll begin my second 10 years and I want to reflect the growth of the program and what they are learning,” he said.
In a room littered with trophies from the past 10 years and beyond, Zuniga said that this might be the band’s greatest moment, because of the community’s involvement.
“There is just a great sense of excitement in the community, and the word is just getting out,” he said.
Look back for more on this story.
