ISLAND OF MOLOKAI, Hawaii -- ISLAND OF MOLOKAI, Hawaii - The Marine Forces Pacific Ceremonial Band headlined the colorful Molokai Floral Parade at Kaunakakai Town on the "Friendly Isle," Sept. 30.
One of Hawaii's premier military bands, the symphonic warriors marched their way through a one-mile stretch of cheerful locals while performing patriotic tunes. After the parade, they played a concert at the town's recreation center.
"It's a good opportunity for our friends in Molokai to see and hear our band," said Sgt. James M. Stanley, who plays the French horn with the band. "Many of the people here never travel to Oahu, so this parade extends good community relations between the Marine Corps and the other Hawaiian Islands."
The band kicked off the parade with the "Marines Hymn" and followed that with world-renowned composer John Phillip Souza's "Semper Fidelis," as well as other favorite tunes.
After completing their march, MarForPac's Show Band rocked the house by playing a myriad of contemporary beats from bands such as the Mighty Mighty Bosstones and Blink 182.
In addition to entertaining the crowd, the Marines had time to enjoy the local cuisine and interact with their admiring fans.
"When the group of children asked me for my autograph, it brought back that sense of pride I felt the first time I was called a Marine," said Lance Cpl. Renee M. McKeen, a flute and piccolo player.
"Without the Marine Corps' marching band, it's not a parade," said Tina Thompson, acting co-island manager of Molokai. "We appreciate the time taken out to visit us. We at the Molokai Aloha Festival thank each and every one of you."