101st Airborne Band spreads holiday cheer

Photo By Master Sgt. Christine Polvorosa | The Leatherneck Gospel Choir performs a variety of holiday songs during the holiday concert held at the Living Sustainment Area 7 Chapel aboard Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, Dec. 21. The choir, which is comprised of Marines, soldiers and civilians, can be found performing every Sunday at the LSA Chapel.  

CAMP LEATHERNECK, AFGHANISTAN

12.21.2010

Story by Staff Sgt. Christine Polvorosa 

Marine Corps Air Station Miramar

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – Faces were all smiles as many service members gathered at the Living Sustainment Area 7 Chapel, Dec. 21, to hear the musical styling’s of the 101st Airborne Band and Leatherneck Gospel Choir during the Holiday Concert.

“The band performed with a spirit of excellence,” said Sgt. Maj. Mark A. Byrd, the Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 169, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), senior enlisted Marine. “They really got the crowd into the unity of celebrating the holidays and having a festive time.”

As part of their tour schedule, the five-member band visited several camps and forward operating bases throughout Afghanistan to raise morale and spread some holiday cheer.

For Byrd, a Pontiac, Mich., native, “This type of event allows people of like beliefs to come together in unity and enjoy some of the customs many would normally celebrate with their friends and family.”

With the holidays nearing, “There is much to be thankful for,” said Cmdr. Francis P. Foley, the 3rd MAW (Fwd) deputy command chaplain. “Let us give thanks for all that we hold dear – friends, family and for each other.”

• Date Taken: 12.21.2010
• Date Posted: 12.24.2010 05:53
• Story ID: 62565
• Location: CAMP LEATHERNECK, AF