Originally constituted in 1916 as the Band Section for the 35th Infantry Regiment, the Band served on the Mexican border during World War I. In World War II, and during the Korea War, the 35th served as part of the 25th Infantry. In November 1950, the band was reorganized as the 8th Army Band and assigned to the Republic of Korea. During combat operations in Korea, the 8th Army Band received a Meritorious Unit Commendation and two Korean Presidential Citations for its actions during the war.

By the 1960s, the Band had become a part of the United Nations Ceremonial Command, an important part of the Honor Guard. This documentary film focuses on the band in 1966-1968 when American foreign policy brought crisis to Korea, while at the same time, the Vietnam War accelerated the demands on American forces abroad. North Korean infiltration to targets in Seoul and elsewhere in South Korea, attacks on Americans and military facilities, and President Johnson’s visit to South Korea—all became defining moments for the band as they assumed responsibility for guarding the United Nations Command Center at Yongsan in Seoul. This is their story.

If you were a member of the 8th Army Band in 1966-1968, contact Dr. Vernon L. Williams, Old Segundo Productions, to receive complimentary copies of this film for you, your children, and your grandchildren.  You can also request free copies for your local schools and/or public library.  Please email your request to:  [email protected] and thanks for your service.

Length 71 minutes