The Appleton East High School Band rehearses for its performance in Hawaii in a Vietnam War anniversary parade. PC: Fox 11 Online
APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Each morning, sometimes even before the light of day, the Appleton East band gathers. They begin their set with two of America’s sacred tunes – the “Star-Spangled Banner” and “God Bless America.”
To commemorate the 50-year anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, the Appleton East High School band will perform in an annual parade in Hawaii on Saturday, March 29.
They have just over a week left to perfect them, before they play in front of the veterans that fought to protect the freedoms detailed in the lyrics.
“To watch our band grow from that first day that we first sightread everything and it’s all terrible into what we are now,” said senior and drum major Micah Crabb, “it’s rewarding.”
Appleton East is one of six bands from across the country selected to perform in next week’s parade to commemorate the end of the Vietnam War.
“To reinvigorate that is just an honor,” said Band Director Margaret LaFleur, speaking on the importance of remembering the veterans’ sacrifice, especially in a war that ended decades ago. “It’s beautiful – beautiful to see… As we’re telling stories about veterans, they’re connecting more with their families.”
About 3,000 Hmong Americans live in Appleton according to the census data, so the war hits home a bit different in this region. Hmong soldiers like the grandfather of freshman Bianca Xiong were were recruited by Americans to help fight in the war efforts. She said he fought alongside American CIA operatives, aiding fallen soldiers.
Many Hmong Americans arrived in Wisconsin after the Secret War was brought to light. The state now boasts more Hmong Americans than all but two states – Minnesota and California.
Veterans are in either capacity are easily forgotten, especially to those born decades after its end.
“I know that it was terrible,” said Crabb. “Especially for people to go away and fight for their lives, and to watch their friends die, and to come home and not even be appreciated for what they did.
“I try and put myself in their shoes, and that really hurts me.”
As a senior and drum major, Crabb’s leadership includes everything from organizing practices to making sure the uniforms are ready.
“When you see us marching in that parade, there’s stuff that goes into that before we hit the streets,” said LaFleur, who added that the students are hemming their own pants and polishing their own shoes in preparation of the event.
Crabb will also speak in front of the veterans at the parade.
“Their bravery is commendable, it’s incredible.”
Bravery from veterans attending the parade, or through those who live on in Appleton East’s band.
“I think my grandpa would be very proud of me,” said Xiong.
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