Wantagh Musician One Of 101 Nationwide To Play In Army Band

Wantagh High School senior and drummer Jarod Sullivan is one of 101 student-musicians nationwide selected by the U.S. Army to perform during the 2018 All-American Bowl held in San Antonio, Texas on Jan. 6.

Sponsored by American Family Insurance, the U.S. Army All-American Bowl is the nation’s premier high school football game, which features the country’s most talented 100 football players, 101 top marching band musicians and 24 color guard recruits. Members of the U.S. Army All-American Bowl Selection Tour were on hand during a recruitment ceremony held on Oct. 5 at Wantagh High School to present Jarod with a jacket to commemorate his selection.

USAAAB event coordinator and master of ceremonies Daniel Doucette explained that Jarod was selected through the video application process. "This selection tour event is about American youth and the American soldier," Doucette explained. To Jarod, he said, "It is your dedication, determination, innovation and strength that provides you with the right to wear the colors of the U.S. Army."

Music teacher Mindy Dragovich congratulated Jarod on this memorable achievement. "You have achieved more than imagined at the high school level," she said. "Thank you for your leadership and the contribution of your talent."

Jarod will also march in the Macy’s Great American Marching Band during the annual 2017 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. Upon graduation, Jarod plans on pursuing a degree in music production.

Photo: Wantagh School District