Citizens enjoy ‘Patriotism in the Park’

Kathy Worrell

Published Wednesday, July 1, 2009

The Navy Atlantic Fleet Band Wind Ensemble entertains Franklin residents Sunday afternoon during “Patriotism in the Park,” sponsored by the Downtown Franklin Association. A few raindrops fell, but they failed to dampen the spirits of the crowd, which listened to popular and patriotic tunes, including a medley of service anthems, during which area veterans were honored. See story, page A8.

FRANKLIN—The Downtown Franklin Association hosted “Patriotism in the Park” at Barrett’s Landing on Sunday.

The performance by the U.S. Navy Atlantic Fleet Band Wind Ensemble is held annually on the weekend prior to July Fourth. This year’s festivities featured several singers showcasing a variety of musical selections.

The day started out quite hot and humid, as DFA board members and volunteers set up and decorated the site. However, by the time the show opened, a nice crowd had assembled to listen to the patriotic renderings and enjoy the beautiful weather.

A few drops of rain fell, but the crowd was so entranced with the music, they hardly noticed the sprinkle.

Upon arriving in Franklin, the band set up, had a brief rehearsal and was treated to dinner by the DFA board. Food was provided by Domino’s Pizza and Subway. As a thank-you gift for their service to our country, the band members received a can of our local Hubs peanuts.

Each person attending the free concert was given either a small American flag or patriotic fan. Raffle tickets were also distributed to each family present for a drawing held at the end of the concert. Door prizes were donated by Gayle Schmitz, owner of Franklin Art and Frame Works.

David Rabil of Fred’s Restaurant manned the grill, and the event-goers enjoyed cold drinks and hot dogs as they listened to the rousing music.

A high point of the concert is the special tribute the band does for all branches of the armed forces. A medley of theme songs from each branch of service — Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine and Coast Guard — is performed, at which time those military members in attendance, either active or retired, are asked to came forward and stand with the flag of their respective branch.

As the band members boarded their vans for the trip home, they commented on how much they look forward to coming to Franklin for this performance. It truly is what small-town living is all about — a free concert under the stars, featuring patriotic music, good food and drink, surrounded by your friends and family.

If you didn’t make it this year, you missed a treat. Mark your calendars for next year’s “Patriotism in the Park” — Franklin living at its best.

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