Spirit of America returns for Washingtonians

By Debbie Lewis MDW Public AffairsNovember 10, 2009

For more than 30 years, the Military District of Washington has told the story of the United States Army through an arena-sized show that earns its name, "Spirit of America." But not since 2005 has it been staged in the National Capital Region. That changes this September.

Spirit of America showcases the history of the Army and the talents of the men and women who serve in uniform today. Audiences from Ohio to Massachusetts have responded to the heart-felt performances of today's Soldiers as they evoke the bravery and sacrifice of the many Americans who have answered the call to duty.

This year, the show opens at the Patriot Center in Fairfax, Va., on Sept. 11, the eighth anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the Twin Towers and the Pentagon. After four shows, two each on Friday and Saturday, Sept. 11 and 12, the production travels to Columbus Ohio and Providence, R.I., on subsequent weeks.

Tickets are now being distributed for each of the locations.

To bring Spirit of America to life each year, the Army calls upon talented Soldiers from two of its elite ceremonial units from the Military District of Washington. Over 300 active duty Soldiers from The United States Army Band "Pershing's Own" and The 3rd United States Infantry (The Old Guard) come together to stage and perform traditional and modern music, dramatic, entertaining historical reenactments and ceremonial drill demonstrations that leave audiences inspired and filled with patriotism.