CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. - The U.S. Marine Corps Esprit de Corps award was presented to George Walton Academy from Monroe, Ga., during the Marine Corps Invitational US Scholastic Band Association 2011 Southern States Championships at Finley Stadium in Chattanooga, Tenn., Nov. 5.
“George Walton Academy won because of their dynamics, energy, and esprit de corps,” said Gunnery Sgt. Deborah Hamner, musician placement director for 6th Marine Corps District.
“It was a very exciting show. With only about 55 members in their band, ranging anywhere from 7th to 12th graders, this school had incredible balance and great intonation,” said Hamner.
“The United States Marine Corps Esprit de Corps award is presented to the High School Band that best exemplifies our Core Values of Honor, Courage and Commitment through the overall effect of their performance. The thrust of the award is patriotism, precision, and professionalism through its conveyed message,” added Hamner.
Marines presented the award as a part of a marching band competition that included high schools from across the southern states.
“This award is amazing,” said Sable Thompson, field commander for George Walton High School Marching Band. “We just went out there and poured our hearts out with passion. It didn’t matter what the score was or what happened. We just knew we had to give it our all and that’s what we came here and did. It’s been a great experience.”
Hamner and Gunnery Sgt. Jesse Gerhardt, Military Entrance Processing Station liaison for recruiting station Nashville, Tenn., judged over 25 bands in the course of the 10-hour-long event.
The bands performed various themed numbers ranging from Michael Jackson to Queen.
The winning team performed a set titled “The Carmen Project,” which included the songs, The Carmen Overture, Habenerolero, Jazzaredor and La Muerte de Carmen.
Hamner and Gerhardt judged the bands on their level of professionalism in keeping with the Marine Corps’ values.
“We really want to get the Marine Corps image out there and let people know that we’re an active participant with performing and liberal arts,” said Master Sgt. Roger Wright, musician placement director.
Throughout the competition, Marines engaged participants and spectators alike by conducting pull-up challenges and handing out Marine Corps memorabilia.
Marines ended the day by presenting the colors at the closing ceremonies and distributing the awards to the winners.
| Date Taken: | 11.05.2011 |
| Date Posted: | 11.10.2011 13:29 |
| Story ID: | 79857 |
| Location: | CHATTANOOGA, TENNESSEE, US |
| Web Views: | 449 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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