JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
A special guest, retired Col. Arnald Gabriel, conducted The United States Air Force Band at their Summer Concert Series performance at the Air Force Memorial in Arlington, Va., July 11.
The USAF Band's first conductor emeritus, Gabriel, led the band from 1964 to 1985, when he retired.
He earned the honorary title "emeritus" in 1990. The title is given to retirees allowed to retain his or her rank in their prior office.
During the concert, the band paid homage to their special guests: an Honor Flight from Austin, Texas. They are part of the Honor Flight Network which transports veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorials of the wars they fought in.
"It's incredible to see Gabriel, a World War II vet, interact with other vets," Chief Master Sgt. Vance Kondon, 11th Wing command chief, said. "He loves what he does; to serve and give back to the nation."
Although Gabriel retired from the Air Force 29 years ago, the band continues to invite him to conduct at various events.
"It's a thrill," Gabriel said. "I can't say enough about World War II veterans. D-Day changed the history of the world; they are the greatest generation. It is a pleasure to play for them."
Sergio Molina, a Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class and Korean conflict veteran, was part of the Honor Flight from Texas. He said it was his first time visiting the memorial.
"It was unbelievable; it brought back a lot of memories," Molina said.
The Summer Concert Series is scheduled to continue through August 31, 2014. Click
HERE for the schedule of events.