Royal Bahamas Defense Rangers Band to perform at Bristol 4th of July parade

By News Staff

Reporting by Liz Tufts

ltufts@abc6.com

Everyone is gearing up for the 4th of July parade in Bristol, but one of the many featured bands has traveled a long way from home to experience the oldest celebration in the United States.

Meet the Royal Bahamas Defense Force Rangers Band from Nassau, Bahamas. 50 members, from the ages 14 to 21, were practicing at Camp Fogarty in East Greenwich Friday, preparing for the biggest performance of their lives—the Bristol 4th of July parade.

“I'm excited but at the same time nervous because a lot of people don't know us and don't know where we come from,” said Briana Im, one of the band’s members.

From the sound of their music it would seem like the kids have been playing for years, but many just picked up an instrument last year, practicing four to six hours every day, memorizing all of the music.

“The level they are at, at this point is pretty incredible,” says CW3 Todd Garrepy, of the 88th Army Band.

Garrepy is the commander of the 88th Army Band in Rhode Island and his team is helping this band sound their best—but he says they don’t need much help.

“Their dedication and discipline makes this happen,” says Garrepy.

All of it wouldn’t have been possible if it weren’t for the band’s leader, Chief Petty Officer, Derron Lewis. He trains students through a military system, not only helping them in their craft, but keeping them off the streets.

“They need to know their craft and secure it,” says Lewis.

For the band, Saturday is something they will never forget and an experience that will carry them through the rest of their musical careers.

“To represent my country in your country, this is the best thing this side of the border,” says Lewis.

The band raised more than $50 thousand to come to Rhode Island this year. You can catch them in all the action at Saturday’s 4th of July parade.

© WLNE-TV 2015