Memorial Day weekend may have gotten off to a slow start with events being canceled because of rainy weather, but by the time Sunday rolled around the weather was perfect for veterans to gather in Verne I. Richards Memorial Park in Frederiksted for a concert.
The concert, sponsored by the American Legion District 10, did not attract a big crowd, but there were about 30 veterans on hand to appreciate a cool evening by the sea and music played to remember those who gave their lives in war.
First on stage was the St. Croix Education Complex Band, which played special numbers in honor of deceased veterans. They included the “Overture of 1812,” the theme from “Rocky” and the classic, “Finlandia,” a symphonic piece by Jean Sibelius. The 25 student musicians were directed by Kevre Hendricks and Skylar Anderson.
Second up were 10 members of Big Band St. Croix and two singers. The music included two George Gershwin tunes, “Our Love is Here to Stay,” sung by Marilyn Chakroff, and “Embraceable You.” Audry Browne sang “All of Me” and “Summertime” from George Gershwin’s “Porgy and Bess.” Kent Moorehead, band leader, did a trumpet solo. The Big Band also played “America the Beautiful,” “One O’Clock Jump,” “Killer Joe” and a Miles Davis tune called “Four.”
This was the first time for the event, which organizers said was aimed at “increasing respect and awareness of Memorial Day.”
Organizer Curtis Williams, commander of Bromley Berkeley Post 133 Frederiksted, said the turnout for the event, considering it was the first time, was not bad. He also had praise for the Complex Band.
“They were excellent,” Williams said. “They always participate in veteran events.”
He pointed out that the school band would also take part in the Memorial Day parade on Monday.
Khalid James Jr., a member of the Education Complex Band, sat in the park with his friend Kenny Anselm after their turn on the stage on the waterfront on Strand Street. He said he appreciates opportunities to play in the band at events such as Sundays.
“It allows me to express emotions and in a way to relieve some stress,” James said.
A group of veterans were relaxing and enjoying each others company after they had put flags on graves of veterans earlier in the day.
“It was nice to get together this evening and come together to remember Memorial Day,” said veteran Antonio Martinez Jr.
