ANNUAL REUNION 2022 - Marine Corps Musicians Association

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36th ANNUAL MCMA REUNION
2022

I KNOW AN ISLAND….

“I haven’t been here in 30 Years!....” We heard that more once this weekend and it brought tears to my eyes! Yes there is a traffic circle, and the exchange is in the old commissary and Opha Mae is the Mascot. Our hearts swelled with pride when we stepped off the bus and moved into the viewing stand, primarily because we were not standing on yellow footprints this time. The graduation was spectacular, the BAND was on point and the weather was gracious as Parris Island, South Carolina welcomed us with open arms, "to the place where it all began"

AUCTION

We had an amazing auction this year and raised over $1000.00! This enabled us to donate to three, yes 3 charities! There was an Armed Forces School of Music Red Jacket for Auction! It was priceless……Talk about Retro! Also, we were introduced to the Marine Corps Ball Rose Pin that spouses were gifted in the 70’s and 80’s. One of our most emotional and sentimental items gifted. Thank You Paula Covington.

WHY COME TO THE REUNIONS

By Chris Debow

Most important is you want to get caught up with old friends and ship mates! In some cases, it may be 20, 30, or 40 years (maybe 15 even more) since you last saw these folks and I must say, we have probably changed just a little. Not quite as much hair, a little larger around the waist line in some cases. I think one of the best parts of the reunion is when there are Marines who are attending their first reunion after being out of the Corps for a number of years. Just to re-connect with people who have a shared history, even though you may never have served with these people, is always fun to watch. Shared stories, and suddenly, new found friends going out to enjoy a meal together. Besides, where can you go today and be able to hang out with a bunch of young Marine musicians and just for a short while, we are them. As always, I excitedly look forward to our reunions. Another year has gone by and hopefully we will see a return of more Marine musicians to the fold. I will be there to enjoy the camaraderie, excellent food, listening to new (and sometimes old) stories, meeting and enjoying a meal with those young Marines of today’s Marine Corps music program and answering whatever questions I can about our history.

Abraham Lincoln most graciously and generously shared his Accordion Symphony for our listening enjoyment.

2023 REUNION – MCRD SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA

We would like to extend an invitation for you to join us in San Diego October 19 - 22! As you can imagine this reunion will be a stellar event as we will join the West Coast Marine Musicians in celebrating the Marine Corps Birthday as they gather for a combined Birthday Ball Celebration. Please see the website for details and registration.