CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Bringing the history of UNC Charlotte and World War II full circle, 137 members of The Pride of the Niner Nation Marching Band flew to France Thursday. They performed in several parades and concerts through the anniversary of D-Day next week.

• Charlotte Center opened as a night school for returning vets, then became Charlotte College
• Each member wore sash naming a veteran
• UNCC is the first university band from NC to perform in 74 years at the ceremonies

“To find out the news we're going to France and how many people we’ve been able to recruit, quite a journey to see how big the Pride of Niner Nation has gotten,” said UNCC junior Christopher Merida.

Ties of the war to UNCC are strong. The Charlotte Center opened as a night school for returning vets. The center eventually became Charlotte College, then the 4 year university we know today.

Each member donned a sash naming a veteran who served in all wars, some will even get to wear names of actual family members.

“When I get there and put the uniform on for the first time its really going to hit me,” said senior Jarod Ricks befor they left. “I may tear up a little bit. Going to be exciting to show and represent my respect for the country.”

UNCC is the first university band from North Carolina in 74 years to take part in these D-Day ceremonies.

Check out shots from their arrival in Normandy below (photos courtesy of UNC Charlotte):