JOINT BASE ANACOSTIA-BOLLING, D.C. -- The United States Air Force Band and Honor Guard will be traveling to New York City to perform a featured patriotic tribute, "This is My Country," in the 86th Annual Macy's Day Parade® on Thanksgiving Day 2012.
Marching 200 strong, these premier ceremonial units from the 11th Operations Group will represent the nearly 500,000 men and women serving in the U.S. Air Force as they march along a 2.65 mile route before more than 3.5 million spectators.
This is the first time The U.S. Air Force Band and Honor Guard have marched in this parade, the largest parade in New York City. Macy's Department Store first began sponsoring the parade in 1924. The tradition has continued every year except from 1942 to 1944, when the store donated rubber from the balloons to the war effort.
"We are proud to participate in this time-honored tradition," said Col. Gina Humble, 11thOperations Group commander. "This is anamazing opportunity for the Air Force Band and Honor Guard to showcase their abilities to the American public. The precision and excellence they demonstrate is a reflection of the high standards, integrity and dedication of all Airmen serving today."
Through public appearances, the two units inspire patriotism and foster positive image of the Air Force.
The Band and Honor Guard, working in tandem, regularly perform for the president, vice president, foreign heads of state, and officials at the highest levels of government and military.
Almost daily, the Band and HonorGuard serve in Arlington National Cemetery, rendering funeral honors to the nation's fallen heroes.
The 86th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade® airs nationwide on many television networks from 9 a.m. - noon, Eastern Standard Time.
