NEW YORK — The Effingham County High School Rebel Regiment took the spotlight Tuesday as the honor band for the New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade, marching down Fifth Avenue and playing “Battle Hymn of the Republic.”
Thousands of spectators lined the streets dressed in green, waving flags and cheering as the roughly 200-member band passed landmarks including St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The weather was crisp and sunny, adding to the festive atmosphere.
“We are back here with the St. Patrick’s Day Parade right behind us. The Effingham County High School Rebel Regiment is behind us. You can see them, and certainly you can hear them as the parade makes its way on Fifth Avenue following the green line. Beautiful music from the Effingham High School band, coming to us from some warmer climate,” NBC New York 4 co-anchor Gus Rosendale said during the live broadcast.
Before the parade, the band spent Monday exploring New York, visiting Central Park and taking a backstage tour of Radio City Music Hall. The group is also scheduled to visit Chelsea Piers, take a Hudson River boat cruise with views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Manhattan skyline, and attend a performance of “Wicked” at the Gershwin Theatre before departing for Georgia on Thursday.
For many students, it was their first visit to New York. “I’m thankful for the opportunity,” Rolaila Ingram, color guard co-captain, said. “It’s a big moment to be part of.”
The parade marks a historic moment for the Effingham County Rebel Regiment, capping off a season that included an undefeated fall competition schedule. Principal Gregory Manior said the trip is a point of pride for the entire community. “This is a big moment for us,” he said. “It shows the hard work our students, band directors and parents have put in. We’re so proud of our kids, and we want to celebrate with them, have a great time, and show off in front of the entire nation.”
Readers can check back for full parade coverage, additional photos and highlights at EffinghamHerald.net and on the Effingham Herald’s Facebook page.
