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Recollections - August Photos Revealed

  • Published
  • By Technical Sgt. Tracey MacDonald
  • The USAF Band
BOLLING AFB, D.C. --  "The three unidentified photos in the August Cadenza were taken on the East side of the Capitol Building in the late 1960's. The conductor in all of the photos is then Captain (later Major) Albert A. Bader, my assistant conductor. Vocal soloist is Chuck Kuliga, who now lives in Seattle, WA. Major Bader is in a (retirement) home in Bethesda, MD. I remember the bandstand very well. The cars in the background clearly place the photo on the East side of the Capitol Building." 

--Contributed by Colonel (Ret.) Arnald D. Gabriel, Conductor Emeritus 


"In those years, The USAF Band performed on Tuesday evenings during June, July and August. (Back then), car parking was open to anyone visiting the Capitol or attending evening concerts. In photo #13, (it looks as if) the Concert Band is playing the National Anthem. I am playing tenor saxophone, the 3rd head behind Capt. Bader. To my right is Robert Michalski on baritone saxophone. To my left is James Scott, the 1st alto saxophone. The 2nd alto saxophone was filled in (by a sub) whenever Capt. Bader was conducting the Band." 

--Contributed by Master Sgt. (Ret.) Clarence P. Strickland, The USAF Band


These pictures were recognized by so many former members of The Air Force Band. Thank you to everyone who took the time to email information. It's wonderful to hear from the readers and learn about their experiences while in the Band. I would especially like to thank the conductor, Maj. (Ret.) Al Bader for emailing me. On seeing these photos, he wrote, "It sort of brings back some memorable times I have spent with these talented people and that is precious feeling." 

It's clear that this section of the Cadenza is striking a chord with so many of you. Please continue to check 'Recollections' each month and contribute information whenever you can!