Subscribe
FRANKENMUTH, Mich. – Soldiers from the 338th Army Band gathered at Zehnder's Snowfest to recognize one of their own. Army Reserve Spc. Ryan Miller was promoted to sergeant during a ceremony just before the festival's events started on February 1st.
Miller stood before his family, fellow soldiers, and early festival goers as he was promoted to his new rank. Most Army Reserve promotions happen inside a reserve center drill hall, away from public view. This ceremony gave Miller a rare opportunity to mark this milestone in a public setting, making the moment even more meaningful.
"Usually, promotions happen at the drill hall or somewhere private—not at Snowfest right before a concert," said Miller. "It was a pretty fun experience to share that moment with my family and the public."
Miller's promotion also marked his transition into a new military occupational specialty. He initially served as a 42A human resources specialist before transferring to his new role as an Army musician (42R). This change allows him to combine his military service with his passion for music while continuing to support the Army Reserve uniquely.
"I was looking for a promotion about 18 months ago, but that was actually when I transferred into the Army band," Miller said. "I started as a 42A doing human resources, but I had the opportunity to audition, and eventually, I made the switch. Now, I get to serve in a role that aligns with my love for music."
Wearing his new rank, Miller joined his fellow Soldiers in the concert band performance. Balancing military service with civilian life, he represents what it means to be a citizen-soldier.
"This is my second year at Snowfest, but my first time playing in the country band," said Miller. "Last night's performance went really well—the crowd was amazing, singing along the whole time. Getting promoted and then immediately playing was definitely a unique experience."
Now in its 34th year, Zehnder's Snowfest draws thousands of visitors to see ice sculptures, enjoy live music, and participate in local traditions. Holding the promotion ceremony in this setting strengthened the Army's connection to the community. It gave the public a rare chance to witness a military promotion.
Miller's promotion to sergeant marks a significant step in his Army career. Advancing from specialist to sergeant means taking on greater responsibilities, including mentoring junior Soldiers and leading by example. As a noncommissioned officer (NCO), he now plays a direct role in training and guiding those under his leadership.
"Becoming a sergeant means stepping up, taking on more responsibility, and setting the standard for others," Miller said. "I'm excited to take on that role and continue growing as a leader."
Like many in the Army Reserve, Miller serves part-time while maintaining a civilian career. Army Reserve Soldiers train and deploy alongside their active-duty counterparts while contributing to their local communities.
"The Army Reserve is a great option for anyone who wants to serve while also pursuing a civilian career or education," Miller said. "I originally joined to help pay for school, and now I get to do what I love while serving. It's the best of both worlds."
As the festival officially began, Miller's promotion stood as a reminder of the commitment and service of Army Reserve Soldiers in uniform and civilian lives.
| Date Taken: | 02.05.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 02.06.2025 13:44 |
| Story ID: | 490211 |
| Location: | SOUTHFIELD, MICHIGAN, US |
| Web Views: | 8 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, 338th Army Band Promotes Spc. Ryan Miller at Zehnder’s Snowfest, by SGT Isaac Copeland, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
