The Army Band at Fort Sam Houston is saying goodbye to San Antonio. The Army has decided to do away with three of their bands across the United States in a downsizing effort.
Whether it’s out on the River Walk, caroling at the commissary, or ringing in a new mayor, the 323d Army Band, or “Fort Sam’s Own” as they like to call themselves, has been serving the Alamo City for over 20 years.
This year, the band will be playing almost 380 missions from change of commands to funerals to more festive performances like Fiesta.
Most of the 56 soldiers who serve in the band will rotate to one of the other 18 Army bands across the country. Some will retire. But most say that they will always have a special place in their hearts for San Antonio.
The band’s commander says that while change is never easy, his soldiers and the Army will adapt.