As the lights began to dim in the halls of the Chubb Theatre, Capitol Center for the Arts, Concord, N.H. the sounds of heavy brass, the melodic whistles of the wind instruments and the low chatter of members in the community filled the theatre's expansive halls . The curtain began to rise, and the 39th Army Band (39th), 54th Troop Command, New Hampshire Army National Guard’s, annual Veterans Concert was officially underway, Nov. 9, 2025.
The annual performance is a time to honor veterans, their families, distinguished guests and the community to gather. It is a time to recognize veterans for their service and bravery, and an opportunity for the community to express gratitude.
“It brings home the fact that we have a strong military,” said Mark Varney, a U.S. Army veteran. “For us it’s good to feel appreciated and receive that praise that we all deserve.”
Members of the band said they put this concert on for a variety of reasons, but one of the best parts about it is the opportunity to engage with the community. This performance is for the public, to honor those who came before and those continuing to serve diligently. It is a show of appreciation for the freedom we have because of those who fought for the nation.
“Removing myself from the stage and having conversations with those who are here to watch is the best part,” said Sgt. Joshua Burpee, a vocalist in the army band and support element for this concert. “This concert is one-thousand percent for the public, honoring those who fought, won and made it so we can continue to do what we love.”
Sgt. 1st Class Chaz Rogers, the NCOIC for the event and saxophonist, said the evening serves as a heartfelt reminder of the sacrifice those before us made.
“I joined the army band because I knew I wanted to serve my country,” said Sgt. Joshua Turpin, a trumpet player for the band. “Doing something that I love while I do it was just an add on.”
Another way the state's military band engages with the local civilian community is by incorporating high school musicians into their ensembles, giving young musicians the opportunity to perform at this concert. Not only is this a great recruiting strategy, but it offers the youth a chance to do something important for the community.
“This has been really cool, not only working with the band, but other talented musicians,” said Noah Steffen, a junior at Goffstown High School. “We are performing and also saying thank you to the veterans through our music and I love that.”
| Date Taken: | 11.10.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 11.13.2025 11:35 |
| Story ID: | 551002 |
| Location: | CONCORD, NEW HAMPSHIRE, US |
| Web Views: | 94 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, 2025 Veterans Day Concert, by SPC Josephine Malloy, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
