122nd Army Band - The Band of The Ohio National Guard

On this Memorial Day we look back with gratitude, humility, and respect for all that laid down their lives to protect American ideals and lives at home and abroad. It is their sacrifice that has ensured our continued freedom and prosperity, and it's a debt we can never repay. But we can and must honor them.

Honor them by living a life worthy of their sacrifice, by building a better world so that the next generation will not be asked to fight to protect what we have and what we aspire to be. Honor them by remembering everything that had to be done, the lives freely given on the altar of freedom, so we may have the opportunities we have today. And honor them by taking at least a moment from your day to be thankful for all we have and those that made it possible.

Free tickets are now available for our America 250 performance on July 3rd at Cincinnati's beautiful Memorial Hall in Over-The-Rhine!

Tickets are free thanks to the generous support of Memorial Hall and the Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society. Seating is limited so you'll want to snag your tickets now before they're all gone!

http://www.122ndarmyband.com/america-250-cincinnati

We'll see you in Cincinnati on July 3rd!

The 122nd Ohio National Guard Army Band is proud to celebrate America 250 in concert! Come join us to honor our country with music from across our great nation. Bring your family and friends to enjoy a memorable event that celebrates unity, service, and the enduring spirit of America.

From heartland country to east coast fife and drum, from big band swing to rock and roll to Dixieland jazz, there's something for every taste and region. Join us to celebrate America's 250th birthday with song and dance!

June 30: Powell
July 2: Delaware
July 3: Cincinnati
July 5: Toledo
July 6: Bucyrus

More: 122ndarmyband.com/america-250

After 20 years of service, SSG Erin Kessler retired from the 122nd Army Band and the Ohio Army National Guard! It's difficult to sum up everything that SSG Kessler did for the 122nd — two dozen killer musical arrangements, performing on instruments ranging from the horn and trumpet to the ukulele and accordion, honoring the service of more than 300 veterans at military funerals, representing Ohio and the United States in a musical mission to Serbia, stepping up to assist the public during our COVID activation, and taking the band's marketing efforts to new heights over the last few years.

Beyond those tangible things, SSG Kessler also left an indelible impact on the Soldiers of the 122nd Army Band with her infectious enthusiasm, creativity, boundless humor, compassion, unwavering support, and stalwart leadership. And that's to say nothing of the excitement she brought to every performance, whether she was out in front or taking a supporting role.

We wish SSG Erin Kessler the absolute best in her well-earned retirement from military service and thank her so much for her leadership, selfless service, and all the music. We'll always be proud of you and look forward to seeing you in the audience!

🏆 Tour Tradition: The Heads of Honor

After 11 high-energy performances and thousands of miles on the road, our Tour Ohio 2024 drumheads have found their final mission—commemorating four Soldiers who went above and beyond!

SSG Derek Kessler – The Vibe Curator Award
For crafting energy, morale, and impeccable vibes from rehearsal to encore.

SGT Jen Grimmer – The Soldier Award
For rock-solid reliability, professionalism, and leading from the front every step of the way.

SGT Jakob Witkosky – The Performer Award
For lighting up every stage with unmatched musical presence and skill.

SSG Arliegh Wiler-Martin – The Leader Award
For steady guidance, clear communication, and elevating the team throughout tour.

Each signed drumhead is a symbol of excellence, grit, and a little bit of rock ‘n’ roll. Congratulations to this year’s honorees!

He’s not done yet, SPC Joshua Hotz just reenlisted! 🎉

Whether he’s on stage or in formation, Hotz brings talent, commitment, and heart to everything he does, and we’re lucky to have him sticking around.

Thanks for continuing the mission! 💪

🔥 Soldier. Dancer. Force Multiplier. 🔥

Congrats to SPC Kira Marjanovic, recipient of the Army Achievement Medal for her creative leadership on Tour Ohio 2024!

Blending over a decade of dance training with Army precision, SPC Marjanovic choreographed and taught original movement to the Full Metal Racket ensemble, supercharging our stage presence and lighting up crowds across 11 shows and 5,000+ audience members.

This wasn’t just a performance boost; it was mission impact, powered by one Soldier’s initiative, artistry, and commitment to excellence.

Your drive and dedication inspire us all, SPC Marjanovic. Keep raising the bar!

Honoring Excellence in Service!
Please join us in congratulating three of our outstanding Soldiers on receiving the Meritorious Service Medal, one of the highest peacetime honors awarded by the U.S. Army.

Staff Sergeant Kenneth Glassmeyer
For exceptional meritorious service from July 2016 to July 2024. Through unwavering patience, mentorship, and commitment to Army Values, SSG Glassmeyer has served as a model musician and leader, guiding those around him with quiet strength and integrity.

Staff Sergeant Erin Kessler
Recognized for her leadership as a Music Performance Team Leader from January 2021 to March 2025. SSG Kessler's creative vision and musical versatility have helped elevate the 122nd Army Band's public image and inspired a culture of mentorship within our ranks.

Sergeant First Class Jeremy Streem
Honored for over 27 years of distinguished service. SFC Streem's legacy of dedication, care for Soldiers, and relentless drive for excellence will leave a lasting impact on our unit for years to come.

Their dedication exemplifies what it means to serve with pride, purpose, and professionalism with

SSG Glassmeyer, SSG Kessler, and SFC Streem didn’t just shape this band—they shaped the next generation of Army musicians. Join the 122nd Army Band and train alongside leaders who inspire excellence.
Auditions open now!

It was an absolute joy to meet and talk with Bill!