The spirit of Henryetta will be marching proudly through the heart of the nation’s capital this Memorial Day as the Henryetta High School Knight Brigade Band travels to Washington, D.C., to participate in the prestigious National Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 26, at 2 p.m.

Presented by Boeing and broadcast across the United States and around the world, the National Memorial Day Parade honors the sacrifices of American servicemen and women who gave their lives for the nation. With a mission to remind viewers of the holiday’s true purpose, the event shares personal stories of fallen heroes while showcasing patriotic performances from across the country.

The Knight Brigade, Henryetta’s award-winning marching band, has been invited to perform once again in this powerful national tribute. It is a tremendous honor and one that has been met with tremendous effort and enthusiasm from the students, staff and community.

Over the past year, the band has been diligently raising approximately $70,000 to fund the trip, an ambitious goal that was met through a combination of local fundraising events, performances at community functions and generous contributions from individuals, families, local businesses, civic organizations and the Henryetta Education Foundation.

About 40 student musicians, accompanied by more than 10 adult chaperones, will depart this weekend to begin their journey to Washington, D.C. The trip represents not only a oncein- a-lifetime experience for these talented young performers, but also an opportunity for Henryetta once again o be represented on a national stage, honoring those who served through the power of music.

The parade will march down Constitution Avenue in Washington, D.C. and will be seen by thousands of spectators on site and millions more via national broadcast and livestreams. The Knight Brigade’s participation places them among elite marching bands from across the country selected to perform in this solemn and celebratory occasion. As the band prepares for their performance in the nation’s capital, the Henryetta community beams with pride, knowing that these students will not only showcase their musical excellence, but also represent the values of dedication, respect and remembrance that Memorial Day embodies.

To watch the National Memorial Day Parade, tune in to national television or visit www.americanveteranscenter. org for streaming details. Keep an eye out for the Knight Brigade as they step off in tribute and song, reminding all of us why we remember.