The Albany Marching Falcons have been invited back to France to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day allied landings of World War II after performing for the 75th anniversary in 2019.

“It’s definitely an honor and a privilege. It speaks to the musicianship that we strive for here in Albany,” said Music Director Bryan Cady.

The marching band is made up of middle school and high school students who have practiced for hours over the past 6 months. 

The goal of the trip is to honor WWII veterans while also experiencing living history.

"This might be the last anniversary of D-Day where there will be living veterans, so to be able to meet the ones who still are alive and be able to honor them through the gift of music is really incredible and powerful,” said musician Elizabeth Powell.

Fifty students will travel from Albany to France from June 4-11, performing two traditional concerts in Paris while also marching in a parade on Omaha Beach in Normandy on June 7.