By Spc. Collin MacKown
As far back as the American Revolution, women have valiantly served in the U.S. military. Today, women make up 16% of the military and serve in various combat roles and leadership positions around the globe. And while there are many roles for women within the Armed Forces, some may surprise you – such as those who serve in military bands, inspire their fellow service members and foster the support of citizens around the country.
Meet Sgt. Emily Daley, a flutist assigned to the U.S. Army’s 4th Infantry Division Band.
From the Field of Education to the Military
While teaching elementary school music classes and serving as the director of a local school band and choir, Emily never expected to join the Army - all she knew was that she simply loved music. Even before getting into education, Emily grew up learning how to play piano just like her mother, and picked up the flute for marching band while she herself was in school.
“I realized, as I was a teacher, I did not have many opportunities to actually play music, just teach,” said Emily. “I realized what I really wanted to do was play music.”
While in college, Emily had the opportunity to see a military band perform, which inspired her to research joining the Army – and thus began her military journey.
Sgt. Emily Daley, assigned to the 4th Infantry Division Band, celebrates Women’s History Month by sharing her reason for joining the U.S. Army, and the duties a band member takes on at Fort Carson, Colorado.
“I realized what I was doing wasn’t what I wanted, and life is too short to be stuck doing things you don’t want to do,” Emily said.
Today, as a 4th Inf. Div. Band member, Emily performs for military ceremonies, concerts, parades and community events to foster a stronger connection between the military and Fort Carson, Colorado, and its surrounding towns.
The 4th Inf. Div. Band takes pride in community outreach and welcoming everyone into their world of music.
“Being in the Army is about pursuing my passion as a musician as well as bettering myself as a person and as a leader through all of the opportunities the Army has to offer,” Emily said.
This story was originally published on DVIDShub.net. It has been edited for USO.org.
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Every day, America’s service members selflessly put their lives on the line to keep us safe and free. Please take a moment to let our troops know how much we appreciate their service and sacrifice.
