...that season (1980) was the best experience in my college daze.

My high school friend was in the MV's and encouraged me to join for my junior year. They were looking to fill out two ranks of sousaphones, and, since I had played sousaphone through high school, I was accepted into the VTubas without any sort of try-out.

...and a blast it was. So many great times that culminated with a memorable trip to Atlanta to perform at The Peach Bowl.

I wanted to come back for my senior year, but student teaching for elementary back then was a whole year affair and I was assigned to work in Roanoke. So continuing my marching career became impossible.

Being a member that one year, however, made me appreciate the dedication of those who take that route in college.