Georgia Bridgemen prepare for presidential inauguration parade
Published 7:16 am Tuesday, January 14, 2025
Photo Credits: Lane Deal. Members of the Georgia Bridgement from Lowndes High School rehearse indoors in preparation for their performance in the upcoming inauguration parade.
Photo Credits: Lane Deal. Director Jon Bowman speaks to the Georgia Bridgemen during one of their limited practices before the parade.
VALDOSTA — The Lowndes High School Georgia Bridgemen band has achieved a milestone that few high school bands ever reach: They have been selected to perform in the 2025 Presidential Inauguration Parade in Washington, D.C.
The Bridgemen are diligently preparing for the event scheduled for Monday, Jan. 20. This honor places the Bridgemen among only four high school bands chosen nationwide.
For Band Director Jon Bowman, this moment is not just about the school but the entire community.
“I think it is way past Lowndes High School. I think it is our entire community,” Bowman said. “These kids have been through a lot, and our community’s been through a lot, so to be a part of such a prestigious event is very rewarding.”
The band will have only a few days of rehearsal to prepare for this historic performance, but Bowman expressed confidence in their dedication. For Bowman, the most meaningful part of the experience is clear.
“The highlight for me is just being able to perform for the highest office in the United States. I do not care who the president is. This is not a political thing for me or any of us… This is just the opportunity to perform for the highest honor in the country,” he said.
Head drum major Joshua Yorkey emphasized the close-knit bond within the band and shared what he hopes people watching the parade will understand about their program.
“This band is like family. I feel like I am close with everybody in the band,” stated Yorkey. “We are one big family, and we love to do everything together.”
When asked what he is most looking forward to, Yorkey said, “Being in front of the crowds is what we do best, so being able to march and perform in front of everybody is just my favorite part of it all.”
The journey to Washington, D.C., will be brief but memorable. The band recently returned from a Thanksgiving trip to New York and D.C., so it is accustomed to traveling.
The community has rallied around the band’s achievement, and fundraising efforts are underway to ensure that every student can participate in the trip at no cost. Donations can be made online at www.Georgiabridgemen.org.
