Academy band celebrates independence on July 7

West Point —The United States Military Academy Band continues its Music Under the Stars concert series on Saturday, July 7 at 8 p.m., at West Point’s Trophy Point Amphitheatre. (This performance has a rain date of Sunday, July 8). The Academy Concert Band, under the direction of Lieutenant Colonel Timothy J. Holtan, will present a program of patriotic favorites and light classics in celebration of Independence Day. The concert will include several patriotic favorites featuring the talents of a number of U.S. Military Academy Band soloists. Sergeant Major Robert Smither and Sergeant First Class MaryKay Messenger will perform trumpet and vocal solos, respectively. Fans of the United States Military Academy Band will be pleased that the traditional Independence Day fireworks display will return once again this year. Allow extra travel time for the 100 percent vehicle and photo I.D. inspection at Stony Lonesome and Thayer gates. Due to changing security requirements at West Point, call the Academy Band’s hotline at 845-938-2617, or check www.usma.edu/special before leaving for the concert. This concert is free. The public is encouraged to bring blankets and folding chairs. For concert information call 938-2617 or visit www.usma.edu/band.