International tattoo drums up excitement

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt Marlin zimmerman
  • 51st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
WONJU, Republic of Korea --  The challenge: form a marching band with members spanning the globe. Meet at a remote location, orchestrate formations and rehearse music, and perform for an audience of more than 3,700 people.

By the way, this all must happen with only four days to rehearse.

Maj. Matthew Henry, Air Force Band of the Pacific commander, took that challenge. He gathered 48 musicians to create the U.S. Air Force Total Force Band.

Members came from air force bases in Japan, Germany, Alaska, and Georgia to perform at the 2008 International Wonju Tattoo.

The military tattoo dates from the 17th century with the British Army. Drummers from the garrison were sent out into towns each evening to direct soldiers back to the barracks. Over the years, the process became more of a show. Bands and displays were included and shows were often conducted under floodlight or searchlight.

The Wonju Tattoo continues through today. This year's event features 22 performing groups from five different countries.