The United States Air Force Academy Band performed a free public concert at the Memorial Park Band Shell in Rapid City on July 1, 2026, launching the city’s multi‑day “Real America Birthday Bash” that marks the United States’ 250th anniversary, according to kotatv.com.
The ensemble invited the public to watch an open rehearsal at Mount Rushmore on July 2 as it prepared for the Freedom 250 celebration at the monument, an event slated to include President Donald Trump. The band is also scheduled to return to Mount Rushmore on July 4 for two performances, one at 3 p.m. and another at 7:30 p.m., as reported by the same source.
Lt. Col. Michael Hoerber, commander and conductor of the band, noted that music has long been part of military tradition and likened the group’s coordinated effort to individual instruments creating a harmonious sound, according to kotatv.com.
For more information, visit kotatv.com.