Photo By Staff Sgt. Emme Drummond | U.S. Connecticut Army National Guard members stand for a photo with Lou Rinaldi, a...... read more read more
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MONTEVIDEO, Uruguay—As the vibrant sounds of brass echoed throughout the venue, audience members experienced more than a performance; they experienced the shared celebration of partnership and music. In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, the 102nd Army Band from the Connecticut National Guard performed for the first time in Uruguay June 25, 2026. The performance shed light on the importance of international relations with partner nations and how through music, partnerships can be forged and strengthened.
Uruguay and Connecticut have a long-standing history of alliance through the State Partnership Program (SPP), which was established in 2000. The primary goal of the SPP is to facilitate bilateral cooperation in all aspects, including international civil-military affairs, aviation safety, and shared leadership techniques. The partnership has been successful with a multitude of joint training sessions over the course of 26 years, adding to both nations’ operational capabilities. Aside from training and leadership courses, the SPP has created lasting bonds between Connecticut and Uruguayan leaders that continue to uphold the success of the SPP program.
This year, the 102nd Army Band was invited for the first time to Uruguay to provide musical support in the U.S. Embassy’s America 250th celebration. The event hosted the Uruguayan President and Vice President along with top military leaders from Uruguay, the United States, and various other nations. The celebration highlighted not only the United States’ 250 years of freedom, but also the collaboration between the two partner nations.
“Events such as these not only advance the mission of the State Partnership Program but also strengthen ties that extend beyond our military partnership,” said U.S. Army 1st Sgt. Michael Reveliotty, senior enlisted leader of the 102nd Army Band. “Music is a universal language that brings people together, fostering cultural understanding, mutual respect, and lasting connections between nations.”
Throughout the event, the band played Uruguayan tango music and classic American numbers to recognize the contributions of both nations to the United States’ 250th anniversary.
“It was both an incredible opportunity and a tremendous honor to be the first U.S. military musicians to perform in Uruguay,” said Reveliotty. “We hope this milestone serves as a foundation for continued collaboration, further strengthening the relationship between our nations.”
The event concluded with a final performance that served as a reminder that music can bridge cultures, strengthen international partnerships and foster lasting relationships among partner nations. The 102nd Army Band is hopeful for the next opportunity to perform in Uruguay to continue this shared appreciation for music and partnership.
| Date Taken: | 07.17.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 07.21.2026 08:59 |
| Story ID: | 570154 |
| Location: | UY |
| Web Views: | 16 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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