The History of the Naperville Highland Guard The Firefighters Highland Guard of Naperville was founded in September of 2003 by Andy Winckler and John Adair along with several members of the Naperville Fire Department who were interested in the idea. The foremost reason the group came into existence was to perform at memorial services of firefighter line of duty death funerals and also as a way to remember those lost in the 9-11 terrorist attacks as well as the annual Memorial Day Parade. With the help of some experienced firefighter pipers the group was formed with a goal of performing for the first time at the Naperville Memorial Day Parade in 2004. A lofty goal to be certain as it takes at least 6 months to a year of practicing to be able to perform but with dedication of our members, we succeeded in the goal and performed on May 31, 2004 for the very first time with 4 pipers and 4 drummers. Since then we have done numerous parades, parties, special events and charitable events like the annual Relay for Life walks, St Baldricks fundraiser and other similar events. We have also had the honor to play at some of our local War on Terrorism military casualty funerals and we will always make our band available when requested for these brave men and women. As of to date, we have 7 pipers, 3 snare drummers, 2 tenor drummers and 1 bass drummer and 4 students all from Naperville, Joliet, Bolingbrook and Industrial fire departments. We continue to look for interested firefighters who want to learn and join the band in playing either drums or pipes, we have able instructors available to teach. Hire the band! |