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The most recent appropriations for the Department of War expired at 11:59 p.m. EST on September 30, 2025. Military personnel will continue in a normal duty status without pay until such time as a continuing resolution or appropriations are passed by Congress and signed into law. Civilian personnel not engaged in excepted activities will be placed in a non-work, non-pay status.

Senior Master Sergeant Joel Brian Wealer

Senior Master Sgt. Joel Wealer is a French hornist with the Ceremonial Brass. A native of Hannibal, Missouri, his career in the Air Force began in June 2002 as a member of the Concert Band. He joined the Ceremonial Brass in 2015.

Sgt. Wealer's career highlights include performing for four Presidential Inaugurations, multiple appearances on NBC's Today Show, and national anthem performances at several Yankees and Mets baseball games. He has also enjoyed visiting every continental state while on tour with the Concert Band and performing with esteemed guest artists such as Lee Greenwood, Michael Feinstein, and Kool and the Gang. 

A 1998 graduate of Missouri State, Sgt. Wealer earned a Bachelor of Music in horn performance. He then attended The University of Michigan, where he was principal horn in both the Symphonic Band and the Symphony Orchestra. In 2001, he received his master's degree in horn performance. Before joining the Air Force, he was a member of the Motor City Brass Quintet, Ann Arbor Symphony and Windsor Symphony. His former teachers include Sören Hermansson, Ann Ley and David Everson.