PULASKI, Wis. (WBAY) — The Pulaski Red Raider Marching Band will perform in Philadelphia’s Salute to Independence Semiquincentennial Parade as America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday.
The students will join thousands of participants helping celebrate the nation’s milestone on July 3 in Philadelphia.
“We believe highly in paying it forward. And the students who come before build the tradition, build the standard, build the excellence, so that those that follow them can have those opportunities as well,” said Michael Guerrero, Pulaski High School band director.
From California to Philadelphia
The invitation came while band leaders attended the Tournament of Roses Parade in California.
“The person who was organizing this parade in Philadelphia approached us and said, hey, Pulaski, we got to have you guys in this parade we’re putting together,” Guerrero said.
For outgoing band president William Gosse, the opportunity is about continuing a legacy built by previous students.
“I think it is, it’s very important because this band’s built on the shoulders of the past and we’ve had so many different opportunities that have just pushed this band further,” Gosse said.
Perfecting every detail
Among the dozens of bands set to perform in Philadelphia, rehearsals are focused on perfecting every step, every turn and every note.
“But also, I feel like it’s because we’re comfortable with the band that we’ve built up. And I feel like a lot of people, like, know what they’re doing. And we have a lot of experienced kids here that not only know their instruments, know their marching, but they know each other and they know how to work as a family,” said Reese Burich, incoming drum major and band president.
As the parade approaches, the excitement is building.
“It’s a tremendous effort, but it’s getting really exciting, as we’re getting just a couple weeks out, to think about marching in the same streets as our founding fathers on the 250th birthday of the founding of our country. It’s thrilling to think about,” Guerrero said.
Copyright 2026 WBAY. All rights reserved.