WILMER JOEL
Several schools on Majuro were treated to a mini-concert by the US Navy Pacific Fleet band last week.
The College of the Marshall Islands was the third school to be visited by the band. As the band kicked off the event with a dynamic opening, the CMI faculty, staff, and students went berserk. The band set the tone for what turned out to be a short but unforgettable concert that drew lots of applause from the crowd. Rain-related disruptions forced the concert to end early.
The band’s leader and chief musician, Vincent Moody, told the Journal that the band had a great time on the island. “We love it here,” he said. “The band’s goal is to support the Pacific Partnership mission, which is to enhance regional security and stability, foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific, and improve regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities,” according to Moody. He went on to say that the band’s mission is to engage the community. Moody stated that the band allows the audience to feed off the positive energy and have a good time.
The Journal was informed by Meyar Laukon, Associate Dean of Equity and Engagement, that this is the second military band to visit the college this year. The band was described by Laukon as “extraordinary.”
She went on to say that the band brought a positive vibe and energy, which is what happens when music unites people.
Student Government Association President Marlin Doulatram said he had his doubts at first, but the performance by the band proved to be exceptional and unique. “Although it was a small group, it sounded like they were a big band,” he said. “The audience was mesmerized by their performance. The number of attendees increased from 50 to around 150 and exceeded the number of chairs we prepared.”
“If I had to describe their entire performance in one word, it would be extravagant,” he said.
On another day, a Navy team visited Laura Elementary School, spending half the day with students. Students with flower lies welcomed them.
“I am sure without a doubt that everyone, especially the students, will enjoy their rest of the day,” Acting Principal Demi Malachi said. “Today will be marked and engraved as their childhood fun and unforgettable memories or moments of their lives.”
The day was filled with basketball, soccer and volleyball that filled the air with joy. But once the Pacific Fleet Band started playing all the students went wild. From age four to the teenagers, everyone enjoyed the band as song after song rang out — songs that the students couldn’t help but dance to.
The stage wasn’t enough to party so they dragged the Navy reps to the basketball court to boogie on.