Marjory Stoneman Douglas High's marching band to perform in Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
FORT LAUDERDALE - Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School's marching band The Eagle Regiment left for New York on Tuesday morning as they are slated to perform in Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
One hundred and sixty-two students will be marching and they have dozens of staff and parents joined them on the trip.
The large group, who arrived early at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International, made the trip on two separate flights.
The students said they rehearsed all year, even during the summer, to compete and perform at a high level.
Band Director Steve Rivero said they are undefeated at regional competitions and placed high in a national competition. He said they've got a surprise planned for the parade.
"We can't really put out that secret just yet but I'll tell ya the band is going to be all costumed up we had a donation that came through to us from the Montalto family, Gina's parents," he said.
Gina Montalto was one of the 17 people who died during the mass shooting at the school on February 14th, 2018.
The band has been in demand, earlier this year they played in London. They said marching in the Thanksgiving Day Parade is another big honor.
"Every Thanksgiving morning I would wake up super early, turn on the TV, and wait for the parade. It's super exciting, I'm really glad that I will finally be able to march in that parade," said Christian Gayle.
Though some in the band will be away from their families during the holiday, they said it was worth it because this was a once in a lifetime opportunity.
"Every Thanksgiving I've always spent it with my family, so this year spending it with my close friends in the band is definitely going to be a different experience, but I don't think it's going to be a bad experience, so I'm really grateful," said Bella Wong, a drum major.
The band will get in a last-minute rehearsal on Wednesday and then roll out in the parade on Thursday morning for millions to see. The Eagle Regiment will make history as the only marching band in Broward County to perform in the parade.
