Citizen soldiers make music

When you think of men and women in military garb, your first thought is probably not musician, but 34 talented individuals make up the 42nd Infantry Division Band. These members of the New York Army National Guard felt compelled to serve their country and each year, for two weeks, they entertain residents throughout the state.

The 42nd Infantry Division Band often performers during civic and military ceremonies, parades and concerts, and plays a slew of music ranging from classical pieces to marches and patriotic selections, as well as rock, pop and jazz.

Among the many musicians, Sgt. Anthony Wevers, of Levittown, joined the band in 2000 saying he always wanted to serve. Explaining that he is a “citizen soldier,” Wevers added, “We’re the people that you pass at Dunkin’ Donuts.”

While Wevers, 30, now balances his time between the band and teaching earth science and biology at Kellenberg Memorial High School, he and fellow musician, 34-year-old Staff Sgt. Richard Alexander, also of Levittown, were among the band members called to Iraq in 2005.

“It was an interesting experience, that’s for sure,” said Alexander. “We’re glad we’re back, but that’s just part of our work; it’s just part of what you have to accept.”

While serving during Operation Iraqi Freedom, the band was called upon to play for fellow soldiers to boost morale, run security checks on Iraqis who were granted permission to enter the base, serve as guards and perform during memorials, recalled Wevers.

“It was a tough experience some days, seeing death, the mourning side of it,” he said. “It was intense, but it gave me perspective . . . it was real life-changing.”

Understanding more directly how precious life is and how quickly it can end, Wevers said he keeps busy and maximizes every minute. “The freedom that I have, I could lose it any second.”

Members of the band translated a love of music and their country into a civic opportunity. Many play more than one instrument, like Alexander, who plays percussion, electric guitar and piano, or also sing, like Wevers, who picked up trombone.

The band puts on concerts throughout the state and has graced the stage at Lincoln Center and on the Intrepid, but on July 13, they will take their instruments to East Meadow as they play at the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre at Eisenhower Park at 7:30 p.m., followed by a show at The Paramount in Huntington on July 16 at 8 p.m. Both performances are free and open to the public.

Alexander and Wevers both said they enjoyed playing at well-known venues, but playing for the public and during parades as onlookers cheer “USA, USA, USA,” are the most fun, rewarding moments.

The 42nd Infantry Division Band, which dates back to the First World War, is under the command of Chief Warrant Officer Mark Kimes and 1st Sgt. Leslie Saroka, and is based at Camp Smith.