News Releases for May 2004
May 10, 2004
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Hoeven Recognizes North Dakota American Legion State Band As Governor's Honorary Band
BISMARCK, N.D. - Gov. John Hoeven today recognized the North Dakota American Legion State Band as the Governor’s Honorary Band in support of its participation at the dedication of the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. later this month. The 44-member band (8kb rtf) was invited by the National American Legion Office to perform at events scheduled throughout the weekend of May 28-30.
The band will perform following the National Candle Light Walk on the Mall Friday, May 28, and again during the VIP reception at the Mayflower Hotel on Saturday, May 29. As part of the “Tribute to a Generation: National World War II Reunion,” the band has also been invited by the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage to perform on the Capitol Canteen Stage in the center of the Mall on Sunday, May 30.
“This is a real honor for the members of the American Legion State Band, as well as the state of North Dakota,” Hoeven said. “On our behalf, they will be paying tribute to a generation of heroes who deserves our gratitude and respect.”
The American Legion State Band is one of only two such bands in the country and includes members from all across North Dakota. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the organization, established in 1924 to support the veterans of the First World War.
Throughout the years, the band has had only five directors; a sixth will be named this year following the death of former director Don Piehl in December of last year. The band has appeared at every department convention since 1925, with the exception of the World War II years. The band has also performed at 33 national conventions, as well as the dedications of the Vietnam War Memorial and the Korean War Memorial.
“The World War II era veterans were the backbone of this high-powered band for more than forty years,” said Band Manager Bruce Holtan. “We all feel it is important for us to participate in the dedication events honoring that great generation.”
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