June 8th 2024.
It was a momentous occasion on June 7th when Morgan State University made history by becoming the first HBCU to perform in Normandy, France for the 80th Anniversary and Commemoration of D-Day. The university's band, also known as the Magnificent Marching Machine, proudly brought over 100 members to pay tribute to the brave soldiers who served in World War II.
D-Day, which took place on June 6th, 1944, was a pivotal operation during World War II. It involved over 156,000 troops from the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and other Allied nations, making it the largest amphibious invasion in history. This courageous mission marked a turning point in the war and ultimately led to the defeat of Nazi Germany.
According to CBS News, the director of Morgan State University's band, Jorim E. Reid Sr., has a personal connection to the D-Day invasion. In an interview with CBS affiliate WMZ News, Reid shared, "It is bigger than the band. Our students have been educated and prepared for this moment. The significance of marching bands, which have roots in the military, is often overlooked. But the traditions of their syncopated movements, discipline, and dignity all stem from the military."
Reid also opened up about his grandfather, who survived the D-Day invasion. He shared, "I wouldn't be here today if it wasn't for his survival. As we march on the beach where he fought, we will honor the 10,000 soldiers who were on that same beach. Their blood is in the sand. I told the band, 'On your right, you will see a beautiful beach. But on your left, you will see bullet holes.'"
The students were fully aware of the gravity of their task, as they were set to perform "America the Beautiful" and "Taps" while marching through two French towns. Additionally, they were scheduled to perform "Tribute to Americans" at the Normandy American Center and lay a wreath to pay their respects to those who lost their lives during the attack. Dante Travis, a sophomore band member, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, saying, "To be a part of the first HBCU to participate in the Normandy D-Day Parade is truly a blessing."
Reid echoed Travis's sentiments, stating, "It's definitely a great opportunity. Our students are grateful for this experience. It's a blessing for them to be able to do something like this."
As reported by The Spokesman, Morgan State University's student newspaper, the band was invited to perform in the summer of 2023 by Music Celebrations International and the American Veteran Affairs Center. Reid emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions of Black soldiers, especially during a time when they were often not allowed to fight for their country. He stated, "Native American and African American soldiers were often given the task of cleaning up the bodies. In some cases, they were not even allowed to fight, despite their desire to do so."
In a press release announcing the band's selection for the performance, David K. Wilson, the president of Morgan State University, expressed his appreciation towards the organizers for choosing the band and giving its members the opportunity to witness history firsthand. He said, "When we think of the historic events that have shaped the 20th century and beyond, the courageous moments on the beaches of Normandy nearly 80 years ago certainly come to mind. It is an honor for our students to not only represent our university but also our nation on such a grand world stage, in recognition of such a monumental occasion. We are grateful to the event organizers for recognizing the talented student performers we have at Morgan and for giving them this once-in-a-lifetime experience to touch history."
In other exciting news for Morgan State University, their FinTech Center recently received a grant of $1 million from a blockchain and cryptocurrency company. This grant will allow the university to further develop their FinTech program and provide students with valuable skills and knowledge in this rapidly growing field.
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