‘Celebrate America’ concert planned for June 27

The U.S. Army Materiel Command Band and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Choir will present “Celebrate America – A Patriotic Concert” on June 27 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1804 Sparkman Drive NW in Huntsville. (CONTRIBUTED)

HUNTSVILLE – The U.S. Army Materiel Command Band and 100-voice choir of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will present “Celebrate America – A Patriotic Concert” on June 27. Two one-hour concerts will be performed at 5 and 7 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 1804 Sparkman Drive NW in Huntsville. These family-friendly concerts are free. The concert is a partnership between the AMC Band and choir “to celebrate freedoms we enjoy and honor those who have given so much to preserve our basic liberties,” Lynn Robinson said. Robinson is Madison Stake Public Affairs Director. “This concert pays tribute to those who protect those freedoms we enjoy as a nation and to celebrate our country,” Robinson said. The musicians will perform “Battle Hymn of the Republic”, “America the Beautiful,” “Hymn of the Fallen,” “The Star-Spangled Banner,” “God Bless America,” service songs and others. “Guest narrators, leaders in the community, will provide context and expound on the patriotic music,” Robinson said. These narrators have helped improve quality of life by service and leadership across the community, including military, government, school, religious and humanitarian sectors. Scheduled narrators are Rev. Mac Buttram, associate pastor, Trinity United Methodist Church; Sen. Bill Holtzclaw; Rep. Mike Ball; Sen. Steve Livingston; Col. William Marks II, Garrison Commander, Redstone Arsenal; retired Col. John Olshefski, former Garrison Commander; U.S. Congressman Mo Brooks; retired Col. Dr. Jeffrey Wilson, Director of Operations, Huntsville City Schools; former Huntsville Mayor Steve Hettinger; Laurie McCaulley, President, Huntsville School Board; Kenneth Anderson, City of Huntsville Multicultural Affairs Officer; Commissioner Phil Riddick; and Mary Scott Hunter, Alabama State Board of Education. “We’re grateful for the liberties and religious freedom granted to us by our constitution,” Madison Stake President Keith Draughon said. “These concerts will remind us of sacrifices made to preserve this nation and how it has prospered under the hand of God.” “We hope all will leave with a renewed appreciation for the service provided to protect our country,” Robinson said. To reserve seats, visit wecelebrateamerica.org.