From 2009 - 2016, I had the privilege to play Taps and honor our service men and women while standing on our bridge. The most memorable parts about this experience were when the nice people standing next to me would throw flowers into the water after the reading of their loved one’s names, and watching the Boy Scouts (some of who are my friends) row their canoe out to just under where I was standing, and lay the wreath in the water below. After they would lay the wreath, I would be given the signal to begin Taps, while thinking about those friends, family members, and loved ones who we’ve all lost.

Being able to play Taps from the bridge was an honor and a privilege, and an experience I will never forget. Some may just say that I’m doing my duty, but it’s more than that. It’s being able to honor those who served and gave the ultimate sacrifice. I hope that the bridge is restored, and that future trumpet players are able to experience that moment as well.