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Robert Wagner
Gene began his Drum Corps career as a mellophone bugler in 1969 with the Pittsburgh Rockets and performed with them until 1973. After a 9 year layoff he joined the Steel City Ambassadors in 1982, again in the mellophone line where he remained until 1991. Another short layoff for the 1992 season and 1993 finds Gene with the Syracuse Brigadiers, and from 1994 through 97 Gene was a member of the Westshoremen performing with their hornline. And now, after yet another short retirement of 10 years Gene is once again amongst the ranks of the Steel City Ambassadors Alumni Corps on mellophone.
Larry is a third generation Reilly Raider. He began his Drum Corps experience at the age of 50 in 1995 as a cymbal player and remains to this day a loyal member of the Reilly Raiders. Larry also spent the 2004 season as a cymbal player with the Yankee-Rebels.
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Robert Wagner
Bob began his Drum Corps career
in 1943 with P.S. # 83 in
Fred’s Drum Corps experience
began in 1936 as a bugler in the eat Germantown Indians Cadets and lasted until
1939. 20 years later, in 1959, he joined his first Senior Drum Corps, the Henry
Houston Mounties as a member of their color guard and was with them until 1963.
He then moved on to the Reilly Raiders and in 1968 performed with the Reilly
Raider/Musketeers. When the Reilly Raiders reformed as an Alumni Corps Fred
once again came out of retirement to take his place in their color guard and is
presently performing with them.
Bill started his Drum Corps
career in 1968 with the Pittsburgh Rockets and remained with them until 1977.
He also spent a 4 year stint with the Sharpsburg Ambassadors. Bill also served
on the Board of the Silver Sabers in
Gene began his Drum Corps career as a mellophone bugler in 1969 with the Pittsburgh Rockets and performed with them until 1973. After a 9 year layoff he joined the Steel City Ambassadors in 1982, again in the mellophone line where he remained until 1991. Another short layoff for the 1992 season and 1993 finds Gene with the Syracuse Brigadiers, and from 1994 through 97 Gene was a member of the Westshoremen performing with their hornline. And now, after yet another short retirement of 10 years Gene is once again amongst the ranks of the Steel City Ambassadors Alumni Corps on mellophone.
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In 1988 Tom started his Drum Corps career with the Reading Buccaneers as a member of their drumline. He spent 2 seasons with them before moving on the Lehigh Valley Chieftains in their snare line. After a 6 year stint, Tom once again moved on to play snare with the Westshoremen from 1998 through 2001. After a 1 year hiatus in 2002, Tom returned in 2003 as a member of the New York Skyliners snareline and performed with them through the 2005 season. Tom presently is serving as the drum caption head with the newly reformed Emmaus Sentinels. He has also served as either caption head or instructor for the Lehigh Valley Chieftains (1995-97), the Westshoremen (1998-2001), the Reading Buccaneers Alumni Corps (1998-2004), and New York Skyliners (2003-05). Tom has been a playing member of the Reading Buccaneers Alumni Corps almost throughout his entire Drum Corps career, starting in 1989 and continuing to this present day.
In 1988 Tom started his Drum Corps career with the Reading Buccaneers as a member of their drumline. He spent 2 seasons with them before moving on the Lehigh Valley Chieftains in their snare line. After a 6 year stint, Tom once again moved on to play snare with the Westshoremen from 1998 through 2001. After a 1 year hiatus in 2002, Tom returned in 2003 as a member of the New York Skyliners snareline and performed with them through the 2005 season. Tom presently is serving as the drum caption head with the newly reformed Emmaus Sentinels. He has also served as either caption head or instructor for the Lehigh Valley Chieftains (1995-97), the Westshoremen (1998-2001), the Reading Buccaneers Alumni Corps (1998-2004), and New York Skyliners (2003-05). Tom has been a playing member of the Reading Buccaneers Alumni Corps almost throughout his entire Drum Corps career, starting in 1989 and continuing to this present day.
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In 1962 Wally joined the Westshoremen as a bass drummer and spent the next 10 years moving around from drum to the next with stops at snare drum, tenor drum and rudimental bass. From 1973 through 1976 Wally traveled south to play rudimental bass and quads for the Yankee-Rebels Drum Corps in Baltimore, Maryland. In 1977 and 78 Wally returned to the Westshoremen after which he retired from active field competition. Wally’s instructional history include assistant drum instructor with the Hershey Chocolatiers in 1982 and 83, and assistant drum instructor for the Westshoremen in 1987. Wally has served on the Board of Directors for the Westshoremen Alumni Corps since 2003 and in also the President of the Westshoremen Alumni Association.
In 1962 Wally joined the Westshoremen as a bass drummer and spent the next 10 years moving around from drum to the next with stops at snare drum, tenor drum and rudimental bass. From 1973 through 1976 Wally traveled south to play rudimental bass and quads for the Yankee-Rebels Drum Corps in Baltimore, Maryland. In 1977 and 78 Wally returned to the Westshoremen after which he retired from active field competition. Wally’s instructional history include assistant drum instructor with the Hershey Chocolatiers in 1982 and 83, and assistant drum instructor for the Westshoremen in 1987. Wally has served on the Board of Directors for the Westshoremen Alumni Corps since 2003 and in also the President of the Westshoremen Alumni Association.
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Bill began his Drum Corps career as a soprano bugler with the Hanover Lancers in 1959. He was in continuous service with them through the 1977 season. In the 60’s During Hanover’s competitive years Bill served as the Corps President, Secretary, Treasure and Business Director. In 1990 when the Hanover Lancers reformed as an Alumni Corps Bill was instrumental in their reorganization. Bill is still playing soprano bugle with them and also serves as their Treasurer and Business Director. Bill also served as the first Secretary/Treasure of the Red Carpet Association from 1968 through 1972.
Bill began his Drum Corps career as a soprano bugler with the Hanover Lancers in 1959. He was in continuous service with them through the 1977 season. In the 60’s During Hanover’s competitive years Bill served as the Corps President, Secretary, Treasure and Business Director. In 1990 when the Hanover Lancers reformed as an Alumni Corps Bill was instrumental in their reorganization. Bill is still playing soprano bugle with them and also serves as their Treasurer and Business Director. Bill also served as the first Secretary/Treasure of the Red Carpet Association from 1968 through 1972.
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Eric Smith
Eric started his Drum Corps career as a member of the brass section in the Latrobe Colonials in 1962 and remain for another season before moving on to the Westmoreland Esquires in 1964. Eric ended his performance career as a member of the Esquires in 1970, serving on their administration committee from 1968 through 1970. Eric served on the Steel City Ambassadors visual staff for the 1992 season.
Eric’s judging career got its start in 1976 as a visual judge with the Pennsylvania Federation of Contest Judge serving as their visual caption as well, and he remained with them until 1986 when he became a visual judge for the National Judges Association and remains with them to this day.
Eric has judged the US Open National Championships 3 times, the American International Open and the DCA World Championships 6 times, the latest of which was 2006 in Rochester, N.Y. and has been associated with DCA for over 20 years.
Eric started his Drum Corps career as a member of the brass section in the Latrobe Colonials in 1962 and remain for another season before moving on to the Westmoreland Esquires in 1964. Eric ended his performance career as a member of the Esquires in 1970, serving on their administration committee from 1968 through 1970. Eric served on the Steel City Ambassadors visual staff for the 1992 season.
Eric’s judging career got its start in 1976 as a visual judge with the Pennsylvania Federation of Contest Judge serving as their visual caption as well, and he remained with them until 1986 when he became a visual judge for the National Judges Association and remains with them to this day.
Eric has judged the US Open National Championships 3 times, the American International Open and the DCA World Championships 6 times, the latest of which was 2006 in Rochester, N.Y. and has been associated with DCA for over 20 years.
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Donnie’s Drum Corps career began in 1957 as a baritone player with the West Reading Police Cadets. In 1958 he began helping the newly formed Reading Buccaneers in parades and exhibitions. He won a spot in the drill for the 1959 season playing bass-baritone then contra-bass and has been actively involved with the Buccaneers or its Alumni Association ever since, having marched in the field show as recently as 1997. He was active with the “Old Bucs” Alumni Association until that organization was absorbed by the Buccaneers Alumni Association.
Donnie has served on the executive committee as Assistant Corps Director and is currently the Corps Historian and an advisor to the committee. Over the years, in addition to 15 years in the hornline, he has served as souvie table manager, truck driver, field maintenance and support staff member. In 1980 Donnie became a charter member of the Buccaneers Alumni Association and has marched with the Buccaneers Alumni Drum and Bugle Corps since 1986 playing contra-bass. He also served on the Alumni executive committee as secretary in 2006-07.
He played with the Buccaneers Alumni Celebration Brass Ensemble, and is the co-author of the Corps song (in case you didn’t know). He has served on the Buccaneers Hall of Fame nominating committee since its inception. In 2001 Donnie was inducted as an associate member of the World Drum Corps Hall of Fame.
Donnie fulfilled a lifetime fantasy in 1998 by joining and performing with the Skyliners Alumni Drum and Bugle Corps until 2002. He marched one show in the Skyliners Senior Corps in the Honor Guard. He remains a member of the Skyliners Alumni Association. He also served on the revived Dream contest committee for four years.
Known affectionately as “Mr. Reminisce”, Donnie always has a story to tell or can let you know who did what and when they did it.
Donnie’s Drum Corps career began in 1957 as a baritone player with the West Reading Police Cadets. In 1958 he began helping the newly formed Reading Buccaneers in parades and exhibitions. He won a spot in the drill for the 1959 season playing bass-baritone then contra-bass and has been actively involved with the Buccaneers or its Alumni Association ever since, having marched in the field show as recently as 1997. He was active with the “Old Bucs” Alumni Association until that organization was absorbed by the Buccaneers Alumni Association.
Donnie has served on the executive committee as Assistant Corps Director and is currently the Corps Historian and an advisor to the committee. Over the years, in addition to 15 years in the hornline, he has served as souvie table manager, truck driver, field maintenance and support staff member. In 1980 Donnie became a charter member of the Buccaneers Alumni Association and has marched with the Buccaneers Alumni Drum and Bugle Corps since 1986 playing contra-bass. He also served on the Alumni executive committee as secretary in 2006-07.
He played with the Buccaneers Alumni Celebration Brass Ensemble, and is the co-author of the Corps song (in case you didn’t know). He has served on the Buccaneers Hall of Fame nominating committee since its inception. In 2001 Donnie was inducted as an associate member of the World Drum Corps Hall of Fame.
Donnie fulfilled a lifetime fantasy in 1998 by joining and performing with the Skyliners Alumni Drum and Bugle Corps until 2002. He marched one show in the Skyliners Senior Corps in the Honor Guard. He remains a member of the Skyliners Alumni Association. He also served on the revived Dream contest committee for four years.
Known affectionately as “Mr. Reminisce”, Donnie always has a story to tell or can let you know who did what and when they did it.
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In 1965 Gregg’s Drum Corps career started with the Derry Patriot’s Junior Drum and Bugle Corps and aged out in 1975. He performed with the Erie Thunderbirds for 1 season in 1976. In 1980 he performed 1 season with the Westshoremen and the next 2 seasons, 1981 and 82 he performed with the Steel City Ambassadors. Gregg, when not competing, also performed with the Westmoreland Esquires from 1978 through 1998. When the Steel City Ambassadors reformed as an Alumni in 1998 Gregg was one of their charter members and performed with them through the current season.
In 1965 Gregg’s Drum Corps career started with the Derry Patriot’s Junior Drum and Bugle Corps and aged out in 1975. He performed with the Erie Thunderbirds for 1 season in 1976. In 1980 he performed 1 season with the Westshoremen and the next 2 seasons, 1981 and 82 he performed with the Steel City Ambassadors. Gregg, when not competing, also performed with the Westmoreland Esquires from 1978 through 1998. When the Steel City Ambassadors reformed as an Alumni in 1998 Gregg was one of their charter members and performed with them through the current season.
Larry is a third generation Reilly Raider. He began his Drum Corps experience at the age of 50 in 1995 as a cymbal player and remains to this day a loyal member of the Reilly Raiders. Larry also spent the 2004 season as a cymbal player with the Yankee-Rebels.
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1967 was the start of Walt’s Drum Corps experience. He joined the Cambria Cadets as a baritone bugler and performed with them until 1974 where he moved on to the Royal Crusaders and performed with them in the 1974 and ’75 seasons. Walt took a brief hiatus from marching competitively and took on the responsibilities as Brass Caption Head for the Silver Sabres of Beaver Falls, Pa. from 1976 through 1979. In 1980 he returned to the field of competition when he joined the Ohio Brass Factory and performed with them until 1983. 1984 finds Walt with the Steel City Ambassadors and for the next 8 years he both performs with and is Brass Caption Head for them. Following the demise of Steel City’s competitive Corps Walt moves on to the Westshoremen for the 1993 season again performing and serving as Brass Caption Head. Another move to the Soundwave for the 1994 and ’95 seasons where again he serves as both performer and Brass Caption Head. After another short hiatus of 2 years Walt returns the field of competition when he joins the St. Mary’s Grey Knights strictly as a performer for the 1998 and ’99 seasons. The year 2000 through 2002 sees Walt again pulling double duty as both performer and Brass Caption Head with Allegheny Night Storm. Then in 2003 and ’04 Walt joins the Rochester Crusaders as a performer also serving on their Brass Staff in 2004. And finally we see Walt with the Reading Buccaneers since 2005. Administratively Walt served as the Director of Soundwave in 1994 and ’95 and as the Staff Coordinator of Allegheny Night Storms from 2000 through 2002.
1967 was the start of Walt’s Drum Corps experience. He joined the Cambria Cadets as a baritone bugler and performed with them until 1974 where he moved on to the Royal Crusaders and performed with them in the 1974 and ’75 seasons. Walt took a brief hiatus from marching competitively and took on the responsibilities as Brass Caption Head for the Silver Sabres of Beaver Falls, Pa. from 1976 through 1979. In 1980 he returned to the field of competition when he joined the Ohio Brass Factory and performed with them until 1983. 1984 finds Walt with the Steel City Ambassadors and for the next 8 years he both performs with and is Brass Caption Head for them. Following the demise of Steel City’s competitive Corps Walt moves on to the Westshoremen for the 1993 season again performing and serving as Brass Caption Head. Another move to the Soundwave for the 1994 and ’95 seasons where again he serves as both performer and Brass Caption Head. After another short hiatus of 2 years Walt returns the field of competition when he joins the St. Mary’s Grey Knights strictly as a performer for the 1998 and ’99 seasons. The year 2000 through 2002 sees Walt again pulling double duty as both performer and Brass Caption Head with Allegheny Night Storm. Then in 2003 and ’04 Walt joins the Rochester Crusaders as a performer also serving on their Brass Staff in 2004. And finally we see Walt with the Reading Buccaneers since 2005. Administratively Walt served as the Director of Soundwave in 1994 and ’95 and as the Staff Coordinator of Allegheny Night Storms from 2000 through 2002.
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In 1955 at the tender age of 6 Rich joined the Commancheros Drum & Bugle Corps as a soprano bugler and spent 7 years with them until 1963 where he moved on to perform with the Milton Keystoners, a senior Corps, at the tender age of 13 for a period of 5 years. In 1968 Rich returned to the Junior Corps ranks as a member of the York White Roses and aged out in 1969. In 1970 Rich joined the Westshoremen and ended his on field competitive career with them in 1975. Rich’s instructional career includes visual designer for Westshore from 1979 through 1983, Consultant for the Hawthorne Caballeros 1984 and ’85, Visual Designer for the New York Skyliners 1987 through 1989, a return to the Westshoremen as visual designer from 1990 through 1993 and finally visual designer for the Canton Bluecoats for the 2000 and 2001 seasons. His Judging career includes the Mid Atlantic Judging Association from 1975 through 1981, Cavalcade of Bands as Judging Coordinator from 1975 through 1984, has judged in the DCI circuit for the 1982 and ’83 seasons, National Judging Association 1985 to the present and is presently the Chief Judge for the DCA circuit and has served in that position since 1983.
In 1955 at the tender age of 6 Rich joined the Commancheros Drum & Bugle Corps as a soprano bugler and spent 7 years with them until 1963 where he moved on to perform with the Milton Keystoners, a senior Corps, at the tender age of 13 for a period of 5 years. In 1968 Rich returned to the Junior Corps ranks as a member of the York White Roses and aged out in 1969. In 1970 Rich joined the Westshoremen and ended his on field competitive career with them in 1975. Rich’s instructional career includes visual designer for Westshore from 1979 through 1983, Consultant for the Hawthorne Caballeros 1984 and ’85, Visual Designer for the New York Skyliners 1987 through 1989, a return to the Westshoremen as visual designer from 1990 through 1993 and finally visual designer for the Canton Bluecoats for the 2000 and 2001 seasons. His Judging career includes the Mid Atlantic Judging Association from 1975 through 1981, Cavalcade of Bands as Judging Coordinator from 1975 through 1984, has judged in the DCI circuit for the 1982 and ’83 seasons, National Judging Association 1985 to the present and is presently the Chief Judge for the DCA circuit and has served in that position since 1983.
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Larry’s performance history started in 1969 with the Casper Troopers of Casper, Wyoming as a baritone bugler. After a 3 year hiatus Larry joined the Erie Thunderbirds in 1972 and remained with them until 1978. He then performed with the Steel city Ambassadors in 1982. As an instruction within the Junior Corps ranks Larry served as the Staff Coordinator for the Enforcer Parade Corps from 1989 through 1992, a Consultant to the Marion Cadets in 1991, the Music Coordinator for the Golden Lancers in 1992, the Coordinator of the Enforcers parade Corps from 1993 through 1995 and was the Coordinator of the Pittsburgh Royal Crusaders in 1995. His senior Corps instructional credentials include Brass Tech and Drill Designer for the Steel City Ambassadors in 1980, Brass Tech for the Erie Thunderbirds in 1981 and 1983, Staff Coordinator and Arranger for the Erie Excalibur 1984 through ’85 and served on the Brass Staff for the Steel City Ambassadors from 1986 through 1988. Administratively Larry served as the Director of the Pittsburgh Royal Crusaders from 1979 to 1980 and was the Director of the Tri-State Youth Federation whish included such organizations as the Enforcers and the Christmas Brass Choir.
Larry’s performance history started in 1969 with the Casper Troopers of Casper, Wyoming as a baritone bugler. After a 3 year hiatus Larry joined the Erie Thunderbirds in 1972 and remained with them until 1978. He then performed with the Steel city Ambassadors in 1982. As an instruction within the Junior Corps ranks Larry served as the Staff Coordinator for the Enforcer Parade Corps from 1989 through 1992, a Consultant to the Marion Cadets in 1991, the Music Coordinator for the Golden Lancers in 1992, the Coordinator of the Enforcers parade Corps from 1993 through 1995 and was the Coordinator of the Pittsburgh Royal Crusaders in 1995. His senior Corps instructional credentials include Brass Tech and Drill Designer for the Steel City Ambassadors in 1980, Brass Tech for the Erie Thunderbirds in 1981 and 1983, Staff Coordinator and Arranger for the Erie Excalibur 1984 through ’85 and served on the Brass Staff for the Steel City Ambassadors from 1986 through 1988. Administratively Larry served as the Director of the Pittsburgh Royal Crusaders from 1979 to 1980 and was the Director of the Tri-State Youth Federation whish included such organizations as the Enforcers and the Christmas Brass Choir.
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In 1943 Bruce joined the Haage VFW Post Drum Corps as a bugler. In 1944 Bruce moved on to the Modern Woodmen Drum Corps and remained with them until 1948 when he joined the Temple Cadets and aged out of Junior Corps competition in 1952. After an 8 year hiatus Bruce returned to the field of competition in the senior ranks as a bugler with the Reading Buccaneers in 1961. In 1971 Bruce once again retired from competition but continues being active with the Buccaneers serving on their support staff. Bruce has also served as President of the Reading Buccaneers from 1964 through 1967. It was under his tutelage as President that the Reading Buccaneers won the first every DCA Championship in 1965.
In 1943 Bruce joined the Haage VFW Post Drum Corps as a bugler. In 1944 Bruce moved on to the Modern Woodmen Drum Corps and remained with them until 1948 when he joined the Temple Cadets and aged out of Junior Corps competition in 1952. After an 8 year hiatus Bruce returned to the field of competition in the senior ranks as a bugler with the Reading Buccaneers in 1961. In 1971 Bruce once again retired from competition but continues being active with the Buccaneers serving on their support staff. Bruce has also served as President of the Reading Buccaneers from 1964 through 1967. It was under his tutelage as President that the Reading Buccaneers won the first every DCA Championship in 1965.
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Ed’s Drum Corp career began in 1961 as a member of the drum line with the Yearsley Cadet with whom he spent 5 years before moving on to the earls of Bucks in 1967. Ed moved on once again to perform with the Brookhaven Crusaders in 1968 and ’69. Then on to Blue Rock for the 1970 season and back to the Brookhaven Crusaders for his age out year in 1972. After a 5 year hiatus Ed returned to the activity performing with the Archer-Epler Musketeers in their drum line 1977 and 1978. In 1979 through 1981 Ed changed instruments and played baritone with the Reading Buccaneers. Another hiatus of 15 years and Ed returned once again to the activity as a member of the Reilly Raiders drum line in 1996 and is still active with them today.
Ed’s Drum Corp career began in 1961 as a member of the drum line with the Yearsley Cadet with whom he spent 5 years before moving on to the earls of Bucks in 1967. Ed moved on once again to perform with the Brookhaven Crusaders in 1968 and ’69. Then on to Blue Rock for the 1970 season and back to the Brookhaven Crusaders for his age out year in 1972. After a 5 year hiatus Ed returned to the activity performing with the Archer-Epler Musketeers in their drum line 1977 and 1978. In 1979 through 1981 Ed changed instruments and played baritone with the Reading Buccaneers. Another hiatus of 15 years and Ed returned once again to the activity as a member of the Reilly Raiders drum line in 1996 and is still active with them today.
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Arthur Straccio
Arthur’s entire Drum Corps career was spent in the service of the Bracken Cadets/Cavaliers. From 1933 through 1939 he was a bugler with them. In 1946 he became the director of Bracken and served in that capacity for 16 years. In 1963 he served on their Advisory Committee for another 45 years until his passing in 2007. During his term as Director Art took 2 different versions of the Corps from rookie kids to 2 second place finishes at the American Legion National Championships as well as any number of color guard State Championship titles.
Arthur’s entire Drum Corps career was spent in the service of the Bracken Cadets/Cavaliers. From 1933 through 1939 he was a bugler with them. In 1946 he became the director of Bracken and served in that capacity for 16 years. In 1963 he served on their Advisory Committee for another 45 years until his passing in 2007. During his term as Director Art took 2 different versions of the Corps from rookie kids to 2 second place finishes at the American Legion National Championships as well as any number of color guard State Championship titles.
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Ernie’s Drum Corps career began in 1956 as a bugler with the Gardner Guards and remained with them, serving as their Drum Major as well until 1964. He served as the drill arranger and instructor for the Cambria Cadets in 1963/64. Administratively Ernie served as the Tyrone Guards Drum Major and Director from 1981 through 1983. In 1984 sees Ernie’s return to the Gardner Guards Drum Major and Director until 1986. The following year, 1986 finds Ernie with the Keystone Regiment as their Drum Major and Director until 1991. Ernie’s judging affiliations include membership in the All-American Adjudicators Association from 1969 through 1978, the Pennsylvania Federation of Contest Judges and the West Penn Color Guard Circuit. Ernie has spent his past few years prior to his passing as a playing member of both the Cadets Again from 2005 and the Steel City Ambassadors Alumni Corps from 2007.
Ernie’s Drum Corps career began in 1956 as a bugler with the Gardner Guards and remained with them, serving as their Drum Major as well until 1964. He served as the drill arranger and instructor for the Cambria Cadets in 1963/64. Administratively Ernie served as the Tyrone Guards Drum Major and Director from 1981 through 1983. In 1984 sees Ernie’s return to the Gardner Guards Drum Major and Director until 1986. The following year, 1986 finds Ernie with the Keystone Regiment as their Drum Major and Director until 1991. Ernie’s judging affiliations include membership in the All-American Adjudicators Association from 1969 through 1978, the Pennsylvania Federation of Contest Judges and the West Penn Color Guard Circuit. Ernie has spent his past few years prior to his passing as a playing member of both the Cadets Again from 2005 and the Steel City Ambassadors Alumni Corps from 2007.
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Charles H Smith
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Frank J. Rossi Jr
Charles H Smith
Chuck's drum corps activities:
1954-57 Duquesne "Dukes", 1957-64 - Pittsburgh "Rocket's",
(baritone & contrabass) 1964- '67 and 1987-'09 Archer Epler
"Musketeer's" Upper Darby, PA, 1968 - "Reilly Raider -
Musketeer's", 1968-69 Pittsburgh, "Rockets" (horn arranger -
instructor)
Horn instruction affiliates: Duquesne "Dukes" 1957-58. C.D. of A. "Girls", Butler, PA, 1963. Lincoln Post "Invaders" Philadelphia, 1965-67.
Lyndora "Girl's", Butler, PA 1968-69, General Butler Vagabond's 1969. Philadelphia P.A.L. 1970-79,Bracken "Cavalier's", Bristol, PA 1973, and 1996-'98. Bux-Mont "Raiders, Souderton, PA 1974, Archer Epler "Musketeer's Corps and Chorus 1987-99,
Music arranging affiliates: Duquesne "Dukes", Butler C.D.0f A., Lincoln Post "Invader's", Pittsburgh "Rockets" (1969 show), Lyndora "Girls",
Butler "Vagabond's", Brookhaven "Crusaders", Tri-Community Cadet's, Audubon "Bon Bon's", Steel City "Ambassador's", Philadelphia "P.A.L
Cadet's", Bucksmont "Raider's", Bracken "Cavalier's", and the Archer Epler "Musketeer's.
Judging affiliation: All American Judges 1964, Mid-Atlantic Judges 1967-'72, National Judges Assn. 1972-2005.
Other music activities: High school band director: Chichester H.S. 1967-'72, Bensalem H.S. 1972-'90. Tuba player: Wind Symphony
of Southern New Jersey, Woodside Brass Quintet, Yardley, PA. Singer: Princeton Pro-Musica, NJ, Bucks Co. Choral Society, Doylestown, PA
Horn instruction affiliates: Duquesne "Dukes" 1957-58. C.D. of A. "Girls", Butler, PA, 1963. Lincoln Post "Invaders" Philadelphia, 1965-67.
Lyndora "Girl's", Butler, PA 1968-69, General Butler Vagabond's 1969. Philadelphia P.A.L. 1970-79,Bracken "Cavalier's", Bristol, PA 1973, and 1996-'98. Bux-Mont "Raiders, Souderton, PA 1974, Archer Epler "Musketeer's Corps and Chorus 1987-99,
Music arranging affiliates: Duquesne "Dukes", Butler C.D.0f A., Lincoln Post "Invader's", Pittsburgh "Rockets" (1969 show), Lyndora "Girls",
Butler "Vagabond's", Brookhaven "Crusaders", Tri-Community Cadet's, Audubon "Bon Bon's", Steel City "Ambassador's", Philadelphia "P.A.L
Cadet's", Bucksmont "Raider's", Bracken "Cavalier's", and the Archer Epler "Musketeer's.
Judging affiliation: All American Judges 1964, Mid-Atlantic Judges 1967-'72, National Judges Assn. 1972-2005.
Other music activities: High school band director: Chichester H.S. 1967-'72, Bensalem H.S. 1972-'90. Tuba player: Wind Symphony
of Southern New Jersey, Woodside Brass Quintet, Yardley, PA. Singer: Princeton Pro-Musica, NJ, Bucks Co. Choral Society, Doylestown, PA
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Frank J. Rossi Jr
Frank J. Rossi Jr.
– At the age of 46 Frank began his Drum Corps career rather late in
life but has demonstrated a true dedication and love of the activity.
In 2003 Frank became a member of the Steel City Ambassadors as a
baritone bugler. He has also performed with the Derry Patriots in 2006
and in 2007 on several occasions Frank traveled to Upper Darby to
perform with the Archer-Epler Musketeers. Frank is a member of the
Steel City Ambassadors Board of Directors, their music librarian and
webmaster. Frank also is the webmaster for the Pennsylvania Drum Corps
Hall of Fame.
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Dan Wildonger
Dan Wildonger
Dan Wildonger-
Dan began his Drum Corps career with the Reading Buccaneers in their
horn line in 1988 and went on hiatus from the activity after the 1989
season. Dan returned to the Buccaneers in 1996 and performed on the
competition field until 2005. During the 2005 season Dan became the
Corps Secretary and has served in that capacity since then.
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Charley Rupp
Charley Rupp
Charley Rupp
– In 1965 Charley became a bass drummer with the Hanover Lancers to
begin his Drum Corps career. He completed his competitive Drum Corps
career with them in 1972. Upon Hanover’s reorganization as an Alumni
Corps in 1990 Charley came out of retirement and once again assumed his
role as bas drummer and has been with the Lancers since then.
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James Russo
James Russo
James Russo
– What qualifies Jim as a Life Time member of the Pennsylvania Drum
Corps Hall of Fame was his membership with the Wind Gap Blue Eagles
from 1987 through 1993, a total of 7 years, serving as both their Drum
Major and drill instructor. Having met the initial criteria for
membership, his illustrious 52 year career speaks for itself. From 1957
through 1963 Jim performed with Our Lady of Lourdes Drum and Bugle
Corps as a soprano and French horn bugler as well as serving as the
Captain of their indoor competing Color Guard. During the next 2
seasons, 1964 and ’65, Jim, as a member of the Fair Lawn Police Cadets,
performed as a French horn bugler, rudimental bass drummer and Captain
of their indoor Color Guard. In 1966, at the urging of Frank Pisillo,
Jim was accepted into St. Lucy’s Cadets serving as their Drum Major and
drill instructor until 1969. After his age out year he joined the
Hawthorne Caballeros in 1970 as their lead Drum Major and served in
that capacity until 1982. When a physical tragedy befell the Drum Major
of the Connecticut Hurricanes, Jim was called upon to assist them so
for the 1983 Jim served as their Drum Major and drill instructor. In
1984 Jim returned to the Caballeros once again as their Drum Major
until his retirement from competitive Drum Corps in 2003. After a very
brief hiatus Jim returned to the Hawthorne Caballeros Alumni Drum Corps
in 2005 as their Drum Major & drill instructor and still
participates with them to this day. Jim instructional career, besides
those which have already been mentioned, includes drill designer &
instructor for the Little Falls Cadets, the Eatontown Royales, the
Bronx Knickerbockers/Midshipmen and Our Lady of the Snows from Queens,
N.Y. As an adjudicator Jim has been a member of the All-Eastern Judging
Association 1970 through 1975, NJA 1975 & ’76, All American Judges
Association 1986 through 1983, the Metro-Eastern Marching Bands
Association 1990 through 1999 and the Mid-Atlantic Conference from 1999
through 2003. As an Administrator Jim has served the Hawthorne
Caballeros as their Chief Financial Officer and was the Executive
Director for Magic of Orlando in 1984.
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Kenneth Sherry
Kenneth Sherry
Kenneth Sherry
– In 1975 Ken began his Drum Corps Career as a snare drummer with the
Hazelton Highlanders and remained with them until they merged with the
Schuylkill Haven Belvederes in 1976. Following the 1977 season another
merger occurred and Ken once again moved on to the newly formed Black
Diamond Regiment remaining with them until the 1980 season where he
joined the Crossmen and performed with them until his age out year,
1982. In 1983 Ken began his instructional career serving as a
percussion instructor for the Reading Buccaneers. He continued with
them in that capacity until 1986. During that 4 years Ken also
performed in their drum line in 1984. After a 6 year hiatus Ken
returned to the Buccaneers to once again instruct their percussion line
as well as perform as a snare drummer with them in 1992. As an
adjudicator Ken began judging with NJA in 1985 and is associated with
them to this day, a total of 25 years. He has spent 3 years as an
adjudicator with the Tournament Indoor Association in 2000, 2008 &
2009. From 1987 through 1992 and again in 2006 Ken served as a
percussion judge the Keystone Indoor Drill Association. In 1987 Ken
began his association with DCA and spent the next 22 years through 2008
serving in a number of capacities. In 8 of those years Ken was selected
to adjudicate percussion in the World Championship Finals. He served as
Percussion Judging Caption Head in 2000 & 2001 and has served as
Chief Judging Coordinator in 2002, 2003 & 2004.
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Lloyd Spangler
Lloyd Spangler
Lloyd Spangler – Lloyd is advancing from Full Membership to Life Time Membership.
At the age of 12 Lloyd joined the Archer-Epler Musketeers Junior Drum & Bugle Corps as a soprano bugler in 1938 and remained with them until 1944 when he joined the United State Navy. After finishing his enlistment in 1946 Lloyd returned to the Musketeers who had now become a Senior Drum & Bugle Corps and once again served as a soprano bugler until retiring from competitive Drum Corps in 1953. From 1946 through 1948 Lloyd instructed the horn line of the Roche American Legion Post. And during those same years Lloyd served as a General Effect M&M Judge with the Interstate Judges Association. Since 19 to this day Lloyd has performed “TAPS” at a minimum of 150 verified internments of deceased veterans of the various wars that our country has been engaged in as well as those who have most recently made the supreme sacrifice to protect our way of life.
At the age of 12 Lloyd joined the Archer-Epler Musketeers Junior Drum & Bugle Corps as a soprano bugler in 1938 and remained with them until 1944 when he joined the United State Navy. After finishing his enlistment in 1946 Lloyd returned to the Musketeers who had now become a Senior Drum & Bugle Corps and once again served as a soprano bugler until retiring from competitive Drum Corps in 1953. From 1946 through 1948 Lloyd instructed the horn line of the Roche American Legion Post. And during those same years Lloyd served as a General Effect M&M Judge with the Interstate Judges Association. Since 19 to this day Lloyd has performed “TAPS” at a minimum of 150 verified internments of deceased veterans of the various wars that our country has been engaged in as well as those who have most recently made the supreme sacrifice to protect our way of life.
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Bill Stork
Bill Stork
Bill Stork
– Bill’s Drum Corps career began in 1964 as a snare drummer with the
Albion Grenadiers Senior Drum & Bugle Corps. He remained with them
until 1969 where he then joined the Geneva Appleknockers Junior Drum
& Bugle Corps in 1969 as a member of their snare drum line and
served as their drum line captain in 1970. From there Bill moved on to
St. Joe’s of Batavia for his age out year in 1971 and served as a
section leader while with them. In 1972 Bill rejoined the ranks of
Senior Drum Corps with the Rochester Crusaders and remained with them
until 1974. In that year Bill joined the Johnsonburg Diplomats and
performed with them until 1976. It was in 1974 that Bill’s career as an
instructor began as well serving as the Diplomats percussion instructor
during his tenure with them. In 1977 Bill returned to the Rochester
Crusaders serving as both a performer and instructor. Following the
1979 season Bill took a brief hiatus from competitive Drum Corps until
1985 where he resurfaces as a member of the Empire Statesmen performing
in their snare drum line. Following the 1985 season Bill takes another
hiatus until 1991 where he returns to the newly reformed Johnsonburg
Senior Drum & Bugle now known as the Grey Knights serving as a
performer, instructor and Caption Head. Bill again returned to the
Rochester Crusaders for the 1992 season playing snare drum and serving
as a snare tech with them as well. Another brief retirement following
the 1992 season only finds Bill returning to the Rochester Crusaders in
2005 through the 2007 season performing in there pit and again serving
as a snare tech. Bill also has been a performer, instructor and
arranger for the New York Percussion Department Ensemble from 2002
through 2006. During his tenure with them they were crowned World
Champions in 2002 and 2004.
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Lou Tierno
Lou Tierno
Lou Tierno
– In 1981 began his Drum Corps career as a member of the Archer-Epler
Musketeers as a bugler in their horn line where he remained until the
end of the 1984 season. The next year finds Lou performing with the
Reading Buccaneers until 1995 and again from 1998 through 2000.
Administratively Lou has served the Buccaneers in many capacities,
including Business Manager, from 1993 through 1995, again in 1997 and
1998 and again in 2001 and 2002. Lou has also served as the Buccaneers
Assistant Director in 1999 and 2000. He returned to that title in 2003
and has been the Assistant Director since then.
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John Tully
– Mr. Tully began his playing career at
age 6. He spent most of his junior Drum Corps life with the Rising Sun and the
Liberty Bell Cadets. In 1958, he joined the Archer Epler Musketeers and
marched as a soprano bugler until 1964 when he joined the Reilly Raiders.
He has instructed the Vagabonds, R.W. Luttenbach, St. Joseph's, Keystone Regiment,
Crossmen, Ridgemen, Lincoln Invaders, Blessed Sacrament Alumni, and the Reilly
Raiders Alumni. Mr. Tully has been the Business Manager for the Ridgemen,
and the Reilly Raiders Alumni. Mr. Tully was the Individual Soprano
Champion in 1957. John has an outstanding reputation as innovator in the
instructional field of visual presentation. He is currently a judge with
the National Judges Association.
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Dave Wales
Dave Wales –
In 1977 Dave joined the Hanover Lancers as a soprano Bugle and remained
with them until they went inactive in 1983. When the Lancers reformed
as an Alumni Corps in 1990 Dave picked up his bugle and has been with
them since then.
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Jerry Ware
Jerry Ware
Jerry Ware
– Jerry began his Drum Corps career as a bugler with the Archer-Epler
Musketeers in 1980 and remained with them until 1995. Jerry moved on
and performed with the Reading Buccaneers as a bugler for the 1999
season. From 2000 through 2002 Jerry performed with the Reilly Raiders.
In 2003 Jerry returned to the Buccaneers and performed with them as a
bugler until 2004. In 2005 Jerry assumed the duties as the Buccaneers
Business Manager and has served them in that capacity since then.
Back To Members
Michael Williams
Michael Williams
Michael Williams – In
1966 Mike began his Drum Corps career with the Philadelphia PAL Drum &
Bugle Corps and performed with them for 2 seasons. After an 8 year retirement
from the activity Mike returned as a Mellophone bugler with the Archer-Epler
Musketeers performing in the capacity until 1980. After another brief hiatus
Mike once again returned to Archie in 1990 and has been with them since then.
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Jack Wells
Jack Wells
Jack Wells
–Jack began his drum corps career at the tender age ten as an axe bearer
for the Modern Woodsmen of Reading in 1939. He remained with them for
two years before moving on to the Hunter Liggett Post Corps as a tenor
drummer from 1941 through 1946. Jack took a one year layoff prior to
returning to the activity, again as a tenor drummer, with the West
Reading Police Cadets in 1948 where he finished his junior corps
experience in 1950.
In 1951 he joined the ranks of senior corps when he joined the Hagg American Legion Post Drum & Bugle Corps and continued performing with them through 1957. Following another hiatus of seven years, Jack joined the Reading Buccaneers color guard in 1964… and for seventeen highly competitive years put his heart and soul into his beloved Corps. He rose to the position of Color Guard Captain and assumed the duties of instructing the Buccaneer color guard and rifle line from 1975 through 1980, producing one of the most competitive and consistent guard units of the day, as well as the distinction of retiring with four DCA championships during his career with the Bucs!
Administratively, Jack was one of the founding fathers of both the Buccaneers Alumni Association and the Reading Buccaneers Alumni Drum & Bugle Corps in the early 80’s. In addition, he served many years toiling on the committee that produces DCI East in Allentown.
By commanding respect as an affable leader of the Bucs for so long, Jack is recognized as a “Buccaneer forever.” In addition, the benevolence, investment of time, energy and resources that he devoted to the betterment of the activity standout as the foundation of his legacy.
In 1951 he joined the ranks of senior corps when he joined the Hagg American Legion Post Drum & Bugle Corps and continued performing with them through 1957. Following another hiatus of seven years, Jack joined the Reading Buccaneers color guard in 1964… and for seventeen highly competitive years put his heart and soul into his beloved Corps. He rose to the position of Color Guard Captain and assumed the duties of instructing the Buccaneer color guard and rifle line from 1975 through 1980, producing one of the most competitive and consistent guard units of the day, as well as the distinction of retiring with four DCA championships during his career with the Bucs!
Administratively, Jack was one of the founding fathers of both the Buccaneers Alumni Association and the Reading Buccaneers Alumni Drum & Bugle Corps in the early 80’s. In addition, he served many years toiling on the committee that produces DCI East in Allentown.
By commanding respect as an affable leader of the Bucs for so long, Jack is recognized as a “Buccaneer forever.” In addition, the benevolence, investment of time, energy and resources that he devoted to the betterment of the activity standout as the foundation of his legacy.
Back To Members
Ralph Winberg Sr.
– In 1952 Ralph began his Drum Corps career as a soprano bugler with
the Nuss-O’Hara-Todd Post and performed with them for 7 seasons until
1959. He then moved on to the Ridley Park Rangers in 1960 and aged out
of Junior Corps competition with them in 1963. It wasn’t until 1984
that Ralph returned to performing in the activity when he joined the
Archer-Epler Musketeers in 1984 for 1 season, the Reading Buccaneers in
1986 for 1season, the Westshoremen for 2 seasons in 190 & ’91 and
the Lehigh Valley Chieftains in 1992 where he finished his competition
career. As an instructor Ralph as been involved with the
Tri-Community-Keystone Regiment from 1970 through 1973 and the Belles
of St. Mary from 1970 through 1974. He has also served as a horn
instructor for Archie and the Lehigh Valley Chieftains from 1991
through 1993.As an adjudicator Ralph was a member of NJA/DCA judging
brass from 1970 through 1980. Ralph was also associated with the
Festival of Music as a Music Adjudicator from the 70’s through the 90’s.
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Denny Wright
Denny Wright
Denny Wright
– In 1966 Denny joined the Hanover Lancers as a soprano bugler and
performed with them until finishing his competitive career with them in
1977. When the Lancers reformed as an Alumni Corps in 1990 Denny once
again picked up his bugle and has been performing with them since then.
Back To Members
Aaron Gabriel Strausser
Back To Members
Gregory Tilburg
Aaron Gabriel Strausser
Aaron Gabriel Strausser
In 2000 Aaron became a member of the Erie Thunderbirds as a soprano and Mellophone bugler and has been a very welcomed and talented member of their Drum Corps.
In 2000 Aaron became a member of the Erie Thunderbirds as a soprano and Mellophone bugler and has been a very welcomed and talented member of their Drum Corps.
Back To Members
Gregory Tilburg
Gregory Tilburg
In 2000 the Erie Thunderbirds increased the size of their drum line with the addition of Gregory Tilburg who has proved to be a talented and valuable asset.
In 2000 the Erie Thunderbirds increased the size of their drum line with the addition of Gregory Tilburg who has proved to be a talented and valuable asset.
