The Kingsmen Alumni Corps: A Photo Documentary

[@DD-tz1cz]

To the Kingsmen Alumni, THANK YOU!!!! What an incredible show you did in 2007! You’re still Champions! Thanks for the trip back in time! Thank you for your hard work and investment! Dave A. Bleu Raeders Drum & Bugle Corps New Orleans 70’s & 80’s

[@americanspirit8932]

Thank you, for trip down memory lane, I was fortunate to see them compete in several competitions I saw the online core, when you did the exhibition, I forgot the year it was at DCI, finals the core was in exhibition today is November 9th 2024. I am a former member of the Long Island sunrises, 1964 through 1968 I saved the video from when you did the exhibition, with the full alumni Corps. I watch it every once in awhile unfortunately in my opinion DCI is the reason for the demise of what was one of the greatest youth activities in North America turned it into a marching band competition, superimposed on a three-ring circus no offense to what they're doing today but not my cup of tea

[@williamborges3914]

Hello! What a pleasure to chat with a legendary Long Island Sunrisers member! I’m so glad you enjoyed the slide show and that you occasionally watch the KAC’s 2007 DCI semi-finals video. Isn’t it amazing that we have this technology to go back in time and relive old memories? Indeed, I agree that current performance styles certainly evolved in ways we couldn’t have expected. It is definitely a different tea flavor these days. I am so pleased, though, that the underlying spirit, lessons learned, and values are still there: • The self-discipline to learn and master extremely difficult things • Indebtedness to mentors • Loyalty to and support of friends, and • Respect for competitors. While we veterans of the activity may not enjoy current performances, we can appreciate that the current activity is for the participants and their supporters; it is they who should and do enjoy it immensely. For our part, we can celebrate that the drum and bugle corps activity is still here nearly 60 years later, providing life-changing experiences for new generations. Be well and keep doing Good, dear drum corps brother, Bill

[@karenk5284]

This is the first time I've seen this, what timing (during Covid). Nothing like some incredible nostalgic moments to bring back a rush of great times with so many wonderful people. Can't thank you enough for capturing our journey, Bill. Praying all is well with you and yours. R24

[@williamborges3914]

Hi Karen, 'So glad you enjoyed it. I wish it was easier for people to find. It's rather hard to get the word out. I trust you and your family have weathered the pandemic storms. We have, too. Since the KAC days we've relocated to Arizona are now waiting for the pool to warm up. 😀 BTW, my contact info is on LinkedIn should you need it. Stay safe and have a great weekend. Cheers, Bill

[@dandbnanbon6097]

Thanks for sharing all these great memories! As always you are a kind and tasteful editor.

[@williamborges3914]

Many, many thanks, Diane. It was an incredible adventure, wasn't it? We'll have to do it again in our next lives. ;^)

[@bobareebop]

Nice work Bill! I think today is the first time I watched this. So many great memories!

[@williamborges3914]

Thanks, Bob. It seems like it was just yesterday, doesn't it?

[@CharlieGroh]

...wow! What a great project!!! Thanks for this, Bill, excellent!

[@williamborges3914]

This is indeed high praise considering you are the reigning master of pageantry photography, Charlie. Many thanks!

[@KACRifle]

Thank you, Bill, for creating this exceptional walk down memory lane!! So many pictures that hold so many special memories...simply outstanding!!! :-)

[@williamborges3914]

You're so welcome. 'Happy you enjoyed it!

[@surferjoe9013]

Nice work as always Bill !! Chris G

[@williamborges3914]

Thanks, Chris!

[@b42baritone]

I think I seen myself in only a couple of photos. I'm not sure. My Baritone horn bell was covering my face.