Our SHS Pep Band had the tremendous honor and privilege of performing as the official band for the Leatherstocking Honor Flight
ceremony at the Albany International Airport on Oct. 1.
Veterans from all five branches of the military who served in WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Afghanistan, and more were recognized for their service to our country. Following the ceremony at the airport, the veterans were flown to Washington, D.C. for the day to visit the memorials.
“I am so proud of the kids for representing Shaker with such pride and professionalism,” said Samantha Baldwin, one of the SHS band directors, and who accompanied the students. “We performed from about 5:30-6:00 a.m. as the veterans arrived and also at the 6:00 a.m. ceremony immediately following. It was a memorable experience for our kids as well as for the veterans.”
For Samantha Baldwin, it was memorable for another reason as well. Her high school band director, Brian Swanhall attended. Mr. Swanhall used to be in charge of bringing the 42nd Infantry Division Band of the Army National Guard or his own Cobleskill-Richmondville High School Band to perform at this event, but he has recently retired from both careers. Mr.
Swanhall joined SHS at the ceremony, playing the trumpet.
Each honor flight is organized by a group of volunteers. You can learn more here!