U. S. Navy Band "The Cruisers" to Open The 2012 Summer Concert Season at the National World War II Memorial
Saturday, May 19, 2012 at 12:00 Noon
The United States Navy Band, "The Cruisers," will perform the first concert of the Friends of the National World War II Memorial 2012 Summer Concert Series at the National World War II Memorial on Saturday, May 19 at 12:00 noon. The concert is open to the public and seating is provided. Parking is available at the FDR Memorial and the Tidal Basin parking area.
As the U.S. Navy's premier contemporary entertainment ensemble, the Cruisers feature eight of the Navy's most dynamic performers. Formed in 1999 as a specialty unit of the United States Navy Band, the Cruisers are under the leadership of drummer, Chief Musician Leon Alexander. The group takes its name from the Navy's versatile, flexible, multi-missioned ship—the Cruiser—and the band lives up to their namesake by having the capabilities of playing genres of music ranging from jazz & standards, rhythm & blues, classic rock, adult contemporary and pop as well as original material. This elite group has engaged and excited audiences of all ages throughout the U.S. and abroad with world-class musicianship and high energy, fun-filled performances.
Having truly worldwide appeal, they traveled to Oslo in 2004 for the Norwegian Military Tattoo. In addition, they performed in Keflavik, Iceland, in October 1999 for the Naval Air Station's Navy Birthday Ball. Closer to home, they are in constant demand by the most senior government and military officials. Smaller combinations of the group often perform at the Chief of Naval Operations' quarters for official receptions. Their show-stopping appearances on Navy Birthday Concerts, Holiday Concerts, National Tours, and Summer Concert Series performances are always a highlight.
“The purpose of the national World War II Memorial is to honor, inspire, and commemorate. It acknowledges the bravery of our allies, celebrates America’s unprecedented unity and solidarity in a time of peril, and honors the heroic achievements and sacrifices of the entire nation in the cause of liberty and freedom. It is a tribute to America’s Greatest Generation and a timeless reminder of the price of freedom.
….Prominently located on the central east-west axis of the national Mall, halfway between the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial, the site of the World War II Memorial reflects the historical importance and lasting significance of the war in American history. It is an inspiring setting on the centerline of the nation’s commemorative landscape.”
To learn even more about the National World War II Memorial you can view the WWII Memorial Book, published by the U.S. General Services Administration on the occasion of the May 29, 2004 dedication of the Memorial. Friends of the National World War II Memorial wish to express our deep appreciation to the GSA for making this book available for viewing on our website. The book is a significant resource that contributes to the Friends goal of further educating the public about the meaning, design, construction and architectural details of the Memorial.
