East High School band performs at Cheyenne VA
By Jesus Flores, VISN 19 writer & editor
On July 18, 2024, the East High School Thunderbird Marching Band performed outside Cheyenne VA Medical Center. The 30-minute performance continued a long-standing tradition of honoring local Veterans during the summer.
Practicing with purpose
The band meets Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., starting in mid-June. Students prepare for community performances tied to Cheyenne Frontier Days, a major annual rodeo and western celebration held every July in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
“It gives students a chance to use their talents to provide a form of service and healing to those who served our country,” said band director Aemalemalo Seui.
Assistant drum major McKenzie Merrell said the performance gives students a sense of pride.
“To be able to show off all our hard work, and how it pays off in the end, creating one of our best performances, is very special,” Merrell said.
Music as a thank you
The July 18 setlist included “Captain America March” arranged by Paul Murtha, “Lil Boo Thang” arranged by Jay Bocook, and “El Gato” by Roland Barrett.
Assistant drum major Delainey Steiner said the band hopes to leave a lasting impression on Veterans.
“It is very rewarding to see the impact music has on the Veterans’ faces,” Steiner said. “It is an honor to perform for them.”
Merrell added, “They have given so much to us, so I think it is appropriate to give them something they can enjoy as a thanks.”
A tradition built on connection
East High School is across the street from Cheyenne VA Medical Center. The East High School Thunderbird Marching Band was founded in 1960 and has grown into one of the premier high school bands in the region. The group has performed at festivals and events across the United States and internationally, including stops in San Diego, Disneyland, New York City, Jamaica and Costa Rica.
Veterans and staff appreciate the tradition
Mel Turner, Cheyenne VA’s Veteran Experience Officer, said the performance is something employees and Veterans look forward to every year.
“We are grateful to East High School for continuing this tradition,” Turner said. “Their music brings energy and connection to our campus and it means a lot to our Veterans and staff.”
Jesus Flores is a writer and editor on the VISN 19 Creative Task Force and a Marine Corps Veteran