The Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Temple band was represented in large numbers for one heck of a patriotic concert for the Memorial Day ceremonies at the Springfield National Cemetary on the morning of May 25th. The band was joined by several friends to fill out their sound and wow did we sound great as a group!!!
The band began playing at 10am and the weather looked for a moment like it might cooperate. Unfortunately the skies changed their mind 15 minutes into the band's concert and continued to rain down on the crowd through the rest of the ceremonies.
Dan Stark did an amazing job conducting the band and many of the songs played were enjoyed by the veterans, family members, and friends that huddled under multi colored umbrellas to pay their respects through the misting rain.
Crowd favorites included "Amazing Grace", "God of Our Fathers", "Dixieland Strut" and "You're A Grand Old Flag". The band also played the designated anthems for each branch of the military during the flag ceremonies.
Even with the rain, the crowd was large and the meaning of Memorial Day was well represented in the respect and tribute that flowed from each person in attendance.
The graves were all decorated with American flags and many Veterans proudly wore shirts, hats, and uniforms pertaining to their past and current military service.
Roy Blunt and Sara Lampe both spoke of the great sacrifices of the men and women in our nation's military service during times of war and the gift of freedom they protected for us and future generations to enjoy.
If you get a chance next year, please join the Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Temple band in honoring the ultimate sacrifices made by so many during the Memorial Day Ceremony at the Springfield National Cemetery. This day is more than just an extended holiday weekend. By participating in the remembering of these ultimate sacrifices we can ensure that future generations carry on this well earned tradition. Not to mention you will hear one great outdoor concert from the band.
More band news to come over the summer. The band will be playing at the June 6th Ceremonial Parade and at the Ozark Empire Fair in early August. Check later for dates and times.
If you want information on how to join the band, send an e-mail to Joe at:
We are always looking for new members and we share a great deal of fun and friendship while making great music. Practices are usually on the first and third Wednesday of each month at 7pm at the Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Temple band room close to the main entrance.
Until next time...be safe and have a great summer.
