Albany students reflect on performing in Normandy for D-Day remembrance

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- Nearly a week after the Albany Marching Falcons flew overseas to France commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day, the band members are back in Albany for the last day of the school year. Some of them seniors, who took with them an unforgettable experience.

Members of the Albany High School Marching Band said being the only marching band from New York State to commemorate the historic day and to play for those who fought for our country was the honor of a lifetime.

"The last song, as 'Taps' played, the sun shone through, and it was just like the perfect moment to end such an amazing once in a lifetime experience," senior trumpet player Drew Eck said. "We're never going to get to do that again. It was just amazing."

Students brought pictures of loved ones who served in World War II with them to Normandy. Having a personal tie to the day made their performance all the more special. Hearing their family members' life celebrated brought students to tears. For one student, this trip brought new meaning to the photo of her grandfather. 

"I actually did not know that he served until, like, a couple days before," senior flute and piccolo player Juliana Blake said. "And so, it was very emotional for me, because it was just pure information about him."

Even though the students did not get to play in the parade as they had hoped because of logistical problems, they were able to play on Omaha Beach, the town of Fillet, and the Normandy American Cemetery as they stood near the white marble crosses. Speaking with veterans, from the United States and France was something the students will hold with them forever.

"When we went, we really were just so appreciated at the cemetery," senior trombone player Anna Baldes said. "There was a lot of French and American people crying at our performances and thanking us. Many people actually took pictures, pictures of just us or pictures of us with them. And when we were driving into Normandy after the parade had already occurred there, were signs everywhere on people's houses that said thank you Americans, welcome Americans with flags."

Bryan Cady, the Band Director, said the long hours of practice paid off and being there to salute those who have served is a one-of-a-kind experience. 

"Playing the National Anthem for these fallen soldiers in the cemetery, you can't help but to get overwhelmed with emotion," he said.

Some of the students who are graduating this year said this was one of their biggest accomplishments and will be a hard performance to top. The Falcons are now working to plan another potential overseas trip.