Photo By Sgt. Kelly Boyer | Members of the 39th Army Band, 54th Troop Command, New Hampshire Army National Guard,...... read more read more
For the fourth time since 2019, the 39th Army Band returned to El Salvador to perform for thousands of spectators at the Ilopango Air Show in El Salvador on Feb. 17 and 18.
Latin America's largest annual aviation and aerobatic exhibition has become a highly anticipated venue for the New Hampshire Army National Guard's traveling company of soldier musicians. And their popularity among locals has continued to soar.
"It's amazing to feel like you're famous," said Sgt. Eliot Lawrence, band pianist. "Hearing thousands of screaming fans who showed up to enjoy our music is surreal."
For over 20 years, the New Hampshire National Guard and El Salvador have fostered a model relationship under the National Guard Bureau's State Partnership Program. The band has added another dimension to what has been primarily a military-to-military exchange. Last year, they played at the U.S. embassy's July 4th celebration.
"We have had the opportunity to make a direct impact through our music," said Sgt. 1st Class David Selmer, drummer and production director for the 39th. "Our performances have been very popular in El Salvador, which keeps our relationship strong."
The band played each evening of the weekend air show. The sets were paired with a light display, smoke machine, and hot air balloon with a pulsing flame. The stage was flanked by stunning panoramas of the sun setting behind a volcanic mountain range.
"We love their performance," said Joselyn Sanchez, who attended the air show for the second time with friends solely to see the band. "Their energy makes me feel the songs."
Spectators wrestled for drumsticks thrown from the stage. Others vied for set lists, while plenty of time was made for selfies and autographs.
"We had so much fun," said Camellia Recinos as she hugged the band's vocalist, Sgt. Victoria Fatukasi. She and her sister, Andrea, attended the show with their mother. "We are really happy we came because you are so good."
During the closing ceremony for the air show, director Francisco Sol presented the band with a propellor-shaped plaque.
"The music was so incredible," he said. "We could see the passion in each of you. We really appreciate you being here."
In return, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Franklin Montenegro, commander of the 39th, gave Sol a band challenge coin.
"We love coming to this stage," Montenegro said. "We love the people in El Salvador and your gracious hospitality."
| Date Taken: | 02.18.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 02.23.2024 10:58 |
| Story ID: | 464445 |
| Location: | SV |
| Web Views: | 28 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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