BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW) – The 122nd Army Band of the Ohio National Guard delivered an unforgettable patriotic performance at Schine’s Art Park in Bucyrus on July 6, drawing one of the largest crowds the outdoor venue has seen for a community concert.

The free “America 250” celebration featured enthusiastic audience participation, a festive atmosphere with food trucks, and an opening performance by the local singing group, United in Harmony.

The event was co-hosted by the Crawford County History Alliance and the Bucyrus Rotary Club, who worked together to make the evening a tremendous success. The program began with welcoming remarks from State Representative Riordan McClain, America 250-Ohio Ambassador Michael Brennan, County Commissioner Jeff Price, Bucyrus Mayor Bruce Truka, and Crawford County History Alliance Projects Director Elaine Naples. The concert celebrated America’s 250th birthday through a musical journey spanning Revolutionary-Era Fife & Drum, Sousa Marches, Country, Jazz, Rock & Roll, and other distinctly American styles.

One of the evening’s most moving moments came during the performance of the military service songs, when veterans representing every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces proudly stood as their respective anthems were played. The heartfelt tribute was met with great appreciation from the audience, underscoring the community’s deep respect for those who have served. Throughout the entire evening, the crowd responded enthusiastically to the band’s outstanding musicianship, creating an atmosphere of patriotism and community pride that reflected the spirit of the America 250 celebration.

Before the performance, members of the Bucyrus VFW 1078, Bucyrus AMVETS Post 27, and Bucyrus Rotary Club joined forces to prepare and serve a meal for the Army Band members, a gesture of hospitality greatly appreciated by the soldier-musicians. Members of the 122nd Army Band also expressed their appreciation for the audience’s enthusiastic participation and patriotic spirit, noting that the warm reception made Bucyrus one of the highlights of their America 250 performance tour.

Crawford County History Alliance Projects Director, Elaine Naples, said she was delighted with the overwhelming community response to the event. “We were very pleased with the huge turnout and the tremendous support from the community,” Naples said. “It was wonderful to see families, veterans, and visitors come together to celebrate our nation’s history through music.”  The 122nd Army Band’s “America 250 Tour” was held in Powell, Delaware, Cincinnati, Toledo, and Bucyrus.

Photos: Crawford County History Alliance