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For many years, the 338th Army Band has been a highlight of Zehnder’s Snowfest, a winter festival in downtown Frankenmuth, Michigan. The month-long event is renowned for its ice and snow sculpture contests, carnival rides, and live music. Each year, Zehnder’s Snowfest attracts more than 80,000 visitors to the town.
During the festival’s final weekend, the 338th Army Band, stationed in Livonia, Michigan, and Whitehall, Ohio, performed over two days, creating an energetic and memorable experience for all who attended.
At about 3 p.m. on Jan. 31, 2025, the 338th Army Band took the stage for the first time that year with a country-themed set. Songs such as “Take Me Home, Country Roads” and “Leaving on a Jet Plane” by John Denver were crowd favorites. The next morning at 9 a.m., the band returned with a brass and wind ensemble, drawing an even larger audience. By 10 a.m., the performance tent was at capacity. As the band played patriotic classics like “American Soldier”, the audience roared with enthusiasm.
The band closed out the festival with a rock ensemble performance at 5 p.m. featuring well-known hits such as Maroon 5’s “Sugar” and Paramore’s “Ain’t It Fun.” The tent was filled with dancing and singing for hours.
Veterans and families often seek out events like these because Army bands foster a sense of patriotism and pride, reminding audiences of the dedication and sacrifice made by those in uniform.
Music has a unique ability to evoke emotions and create shared experiences. This was especially evident as, during each set, conductors paused the performance to recognize past and present service members in the crowd. The band stood in salute, providing a solemn moment of appreciation between upbeat performances. It was a powerful reminder that the military is more than a fighting force. It is composed of our sons, daughters, families, and neighbors.
The 338th Army Band exemplifies the idea that the military is not separate from the communities it serves but an integral part of the nation it protects. The pride in downtown Frankenmuth was unmistakable, and the crowd only grew throughout the electrifying performances. Enthusiastic chants of “USA! USA! USA!” erupted at several points during the event.
Beyond its impact on the community, the Army Band plays a critical role within the military. The musicians of the 338th Army Band, like all Army bands, are highly skilled professionals who undergo rigorous training to master their craft. Not only are they fully trained soldiers, but they are also exceptional musicians, often singing and playing multiple instruments. Their performances, while entertaining, greatly contribute to morale and unit cohesion across the force.
A Legacy of Service and Music
Military bands predate the founding of the United States. During the Revolutionary War, bands were used to train troops, boost morale, and provide battlefield communication. Drummers and buglers played a crucial role in relaying commands to soldiers, signaling advances, retreats, and other tactical movements.
Over time, these early field bands became important morale boosters, performing concerts and recitals for both soldiers and local communities.
In 1916, Congress passed a law establishing bands for the headquarters of infantry, cavalry, and artillery units, recognizing their essential role in maintaining soldier morale. As the world evolved, so did military bands, yet their core mission remained unchanged, bringing inspiration and joy to the American people.
By participating in public events like Zehnder’s Snowfest, the 338th Army Band demonstrates the discipline, skill, and excellence that define the U.S. Army.
To maintain readiness, the band regularly performs at public events, including parades, community concert series, military charity fundraisers, and other major gatherings.
For more information or to request a performance, visit www.338tharmyband.com.
| Date Taken: | 02.05.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 02.06.2025 13:44 |
| Story ID: | 490164 |
| Location: | US |
| Web Views: | 10 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, The Army Band: A Cherished Tradition in Frankenmuth, Michigan, by PFC Melanie Tolen, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
