Emblems of Sacrifice

Emblems of Sacrifice was commissioned by the Second Winds Community Band of McMinnville Oregon specifically for performance on the ensemble’s annual Veterans Day concert. The lyrical, dignified work was composed to honor all veterans in the commissioning ensemble’s region of Yamhill County Oregon. The November 6, 2016 premiere performance, entitled I Remember Vietnam, served to underscore a slide presentation comprising the images of veterans in the community, including those current and former members of the Second Winds Community Band. This composition is dedicated to these local veterans - and their counterparts found in every region of the United States - who have served, and who currently serve, in our nation’s military branches as the true emblems of sacrifice.