NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — The St. Augustine High School “Marching 100” band is in Normandy for the D-Day remembrance ceremonies.
Here is their D-Day performance at the Brittany American Cemetery in Normandy:
On Friday, June 7, they will perform at the Le Concert de Liberation in Saint-Mere-Eglise and at the Normandy American Cemetery. On Saturday, June 8, they will participate in the D-Day Memorial Parade in Sainte-Mere-Eglise. On Sunday, June 9, they will perform in Paris at the Jardin d ’Acclimatation.
“We are the first Black band to be a part of this. I’m excited because this is huge. I’ve never been out of the state before,” said Joynal Abdin, a St. Augustine High School junior.
This seven-day experience, a testament to the band’s dedication and talent, comes at a cost of $700,000. The National World War II Museum and generous donors made this trip possible.
Band Director Ray Johnson Sr. emphasizes the significance of this honor. “It is quite an honor to be one of the few high schools representing not only our state and city but also the United States,” Johnson said.
Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter.
