Once again, Facebook informed me of someone’s death. I don’t really have any words to describe how I’ve been feeling upon learning that George N. Parks passed away yesterday. I performed with the Minuteman Marching Band from 1996-1999, enjoying four seasons of amazing experiences. I’ve performed for President Clinton, marched at Giants Stadium, played halftime at a Montreal Alouettes game, received the Sudler Trophy and cheered the UMass football team to a National Championship. I wouldn’t have done any of it without the enthusiasm, dedication and leadership from Mr. Parks. Through all of this, I’ve had Dan Fogelberg’s “Leader of the Band” stuck in my head today and I leave you with his lyrics (with minor edits in tribute):
I thank you for the music
And your stories of the road
I thank you for the freedom
When it came my time to go
I thank you for the kindness
And the times when you got tough
And, Mr. Parks, I don’t think I
Said ‘thank you’ near enoughThe leader of the band is tired
And his eyes are growing old
But his blood runs through my instrument
And his song is in my soul
My life has been a poor attempt
To imitate the man
I’m just a living legacy
To the leader of the band
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