Dunedin Concert Band Honors U.S. Military

The Dunedin Concert Band Director Louis Zagar presents a 200-pound remnant of the World Trade Center to the City of Dunedin at this evening's annual patriotic concert.

The Ground Zero artifact is being presented to the through the efforts of the family of Battalion Chief Lawrence T. Stack, FDNY, killed in the collapse of the North Tower on September 11, 2001. Dedicated to honor all those 9/11 first responders, it will be on permanent display at the Dunedin Community Center immediately after the performances.

Zagar explained that he acquired the piece from Stack's son, during a moving visit at Ground Zero in New York.

"It's bigger than an individual," Zagar said of his reason for giving it to the city. "I thought it would be a fitting and long-lasting gesture."

Friday's concert and its Sunday encore are an early Memorial Day / Fourth of July celebration. The World Trade Center remnant will be presented in a solemn honor guard ceremony.

Cadets from ROTC and firefighters from the also will be there.

Included in the event will be three video presentations highlighting Mount Rushmore ("Rushmore"), the leadership of Abraham Lincoln ("Lincoln Legacy") and the events of September 11, 2001 ("American Anthem"). 

“The evening will be filled with the sights and sounds of America and all who have served,” Zagar said.

Special guest vocal soloists Nolan Marshall along with Georgio and Melody Aristo will perform with the band on “O Danny Boy,” “The Battle Hymn of the Republic” and “The Navy Hymn." The band will play "The Armed Forces Salute" recognizing all those who served in each branch of the U.S. military.  

"I got a lump in my throat starting several of the pieces [during a dress rehearsal]," Zagar added.

Mathew Eberius with the department said, “While we are honoring the heroes of 9/11 at this performance, it’s also a reminder that we have 25 million Americans that have worn a uniform on behalf of the United States, protecting our freedoms and defending our great country.”

“I think it’s going to serve as a true historic reminder when it’s on display here at the Community Center,” he said of the artifact. “It’s important that we never forget and that we show future generations what we fought for.”

Want to go?

• When: Outdoor concert is Friday, May 13 at 8 p.m. on Dunedin’s Sindoon Stage. An indoor version of the concert is Sunday, May 15 at 3 p.m. in the Edinburgh Hall at .
• What to bring: The city recommends people bring lawn chairs, beach blankets and picnic baskets for the outdoor concert. Light refreshments and concessions will also be available.
• Pricing: The concerts are free and open to the public with a donation opportunity at the concert’s conclusion.
• Parking: Free parking is available in and in the main lot of the . It’s actually closer if you park in the grass off of Michigan Boulevard, just follow the parking signs.