Henry Ford II Marching Falcons took part in National Memorial Day Parade

The Henry Ford II High School marching band was one of two Michigan high school bands – and among only 21 nationally - to participate in the National Memorial Day Parade in Washington, D.C.

The Marching Falcons took part in the three-hour parade in the nation’s capital which was organized by the American Veterans Center and Music Celebrations International.

“By the end of the trip they had a much deeper understanding and appreciation as to why we marched in this parade - to honor those who sacrificed their lives to maintain our freedoms,” said Henry Ford II bands and orchestra director Matthew Schoenherr. “Marching down Constitution Avenue in our nation’s capital was an awesome experience for the kids.”

Approximately 60 members of the band participated in the May 25 march, which passed alongside the National Mall on Constitution Avenue between 7th and 17th Streets.

The National Memorial Day Parade pays tribute to the pride, sacrifice and service of America’s veterans. Memorial Day, which was originally known as Decoration Day, has a history stretching back to the Civil War and serves as an important reminder of those who died in service to our country.

The parade returned to Washington D.C. in 2004 after a nearly 70-year absence, coinciding with the dedication of the World War II Memorial.

In addition to high school bands, the parade included veterans units honoring those who fought in World War I, War World II, the Korean and Vietnam conflicts, Desert Storm and the liberation of Grenada, Panama, Iraq and Afghanistan. Patriotic-themed floats and helium-filled balloons are also part of the procession. More than 10,000 participants take part annually.