Jax State Marching Southerners to Perform at 80th D-Day Commemoration in Normandy

The Marching Southerners from Jacksonville State University are preparing for a historic performance at the 80th commemoration of D-Day in Normandy, France, on June 6.

This event marks the liberation of Europe from Nazi occupation during World War II. The band will honor the brave men and women who fought to liberate Western Europe and change the course of World War II.

The band will perform along with other ensembles, choirs and JROTC students in two official public ceremonies memorializing those laid to rest on the beaches of Normandy – on June 6 at St. James American Cemetery and June 7 at Normandy American Cemetery. On June 8, they will participate in a parade starting in Sainte-Mere-Eglise, the first village to be liberated by American troops.

“This will be an amazing experience for our students,” said Dr. Ken Bodiford, JSU director of bands. “We are honored to help salute the brave men and women who fought to liberate Western Europe and turn the tide of World War II.”

The university has allowed other students, staff, alums, and supporters to join the historic journey.

This is not the first time the Marching Southerners have performed at significant events overseas; they have performed at Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee in London, the 75th anniversary of the Japanese surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, and the World Peace Day Parade at the Vatican.