Auxiliary Band Revitalizes Esprit D'Corps of Hospitalized Veterans, Kicking Off Week-Long Salute
Article and photos from Press Release by John Sasso, FSO-PA, Flotilla 22-07, D1-SR, Fort Salonga, NY

John Sasso, Assistant Band Leader, conducts the Star Spangled Banner at the Salute to Hospitalized Veterans on February 10.

The US Coast Guard Auxiliary Band during the recent concert at the Atrium Building at the VA Hospital.

Trombonist Dan Stahl and trumpeter Steve Dejuri (background) keeping their focus on the the harmony of the moment.

The US Coast Guard Auxiliary Band, Flotilla 22-07 of Fort Salonga, kicked off the week-long National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans on Sunday February 10, 2008 at the Northport Veteran’s Administration (VA) Hospital Atrium Building.

The Band revitalized the esprit d'corps of the approx 40 patients, family and friends who were present with their 45 minutes of patriotic and military tunes. Conducting was assistant Band Leader and principal saxophonist, John Sasso.

"The Band was fantastic and did a fabulous job," said Joan Antonaccio, Coordinator of Guest Services at the hospital and the Disabled American Veteran's (DAV) Ambassador Program.  “I loved when they played 'America the Beautiful',” she said.

The Group was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation from the Department of Veterans Affairs for participating in the “National Salute to Hospitalized Veterans Week” by Dennis Krudler, DAV Director of Transportation and ex-Commander.

The Band rehearses in Northport and is looking for more patriotic musicians to add to its ranks.  If you are interested in joining the Band or are looking for ways and means of starting a band in your area, contact Bob Williams, Flotilla Commander by visiting the website at www.uscgauxband.com