PULASKI, WI- The Pulaski High School Red Raider Marching Band is preparing for another national stage as it heads to Philadelphia to perform in the Salute to Independence Semiquincentennial Parade on July 3.
The parade is part of the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration and will feature representatives from all 50 states and U.S. territories, including marching bands, military units, floats, historical groups, and international performers.
Comments from Director Michael Guerrero
For band member Dayne Groth, the opportunity is another milestone in a marching career that has already included appearances in the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena and performances at Disney destinations.
“It was just crazy,” Dayne said of learning the band had been selected. “We got that news about a year ago now, and it’s been quite the journey since then.”
While national performances often grab headlines, Groth credits the band’s success to the dedication of every member, along with strong leadership from directors and student section leaders.
“We can’t do it without that one person, no matter who they are,” he said. “Everybody puts in so much effort.”
Comments from band member Dayne Groth
Dayne said the band’s hometown performances remain some of his favorites, including the annual Pulaski Polka Days Parade.
“It’s local, so much friend and family and just a great time all around,” he said. “It’s packed full of fun.”
Band Director Michael Guerrero said preparing for a trip of this magnitude takes years of planning. He noted the invitation process began after the band’s Rose Parade appearance in 2024, with detailed preparations intensifying over the last 18 months.
“We’ve organized more than 20 chaperones and adult volunteers,” Guerrero said. “It’s a large-scale operation with a lot of planning and task completion behind the scenes to make it work.”
Guerrero said the band’s success is rooted in the strong support of the Pulaski community and the work ethic of its students.
“We perform with enthusiasm and vigor and fun no matter where we perform,” Guerrero said. “Whether it’s Pulaski, a nearby small-town festival, or on a national stage.”
As another group of seniors prepares to graduate, Guerrero said their leadership will leave a lasting impact on the program.
“We believe highly in empowering students to lead,” he said. “A lot of these opportunities are possible because of those who came before them. We believe in paying it forward.”
The Pulaski Marching Band will join bands from across the country when it takes part in the historic Philadelphia celebration, representing both Pulaski and Wisconsin on one of the nation’s biggest stages.
The appearance adds to the band’s long history of prestigious performances, including multiple appearances in the Tournament of Roses Parade, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, New York City’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and performances at Carnegie Hall, Disney World, and Disneyland.
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