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What do New York City, Boston, Washington D.C., Nashville, Los Angeles and Zeigler have in common? Not much? Maybe more than you realize, let me spark your memory. Go with me back to the spring of 1976, a time of healing and recovery after the Viet Nam war. However, before we delve into that era, permit me to bring you up to speed on an extra ordinary group of young Americans.

For more than eighty-two years the U.S. Army Band, established by General John J. "Blackjack" Pershing, has served with distinction both nationally and internationally. In the early days, prior to World War II, The Band became well known due to the many radio broadcasts they made on the major radio networks. However, with the onset of war, that role changed. In June 1943, The Band was shipped overseas to perform for the many G.I.’s serving in Africa and Europe. Finally, twenty-four months later, at the close of World War II, The Band returned to the United States and peace.

During the post-war era, The Band expanded in scope and diversity to keep pace with an increased demand for specialized assignments. This period saw The Band perform with many well-known vocal artists, ranging from opera to popular music, including Eddie Fisher and Steve Lawrence. But, the performance that brought The Band to the national spotlight was their participation in the funeral of President John F. Kennedy, including Taps at Arlington National Cemetery.
In 1972, to assist in meeting the increasing demand for public performances, the army established several performing units - The Ceremonial Band, The Army Chorus, The Herald Trumpets, The Army Strings and the U.S. Army Blues. At the same time, an official Coat of Arms and distinctive uniforms were approved to reflect The Band's increased visibility at events of national significance.

Today, The Army Blues carries on a tradition begun by the Army Dance Band which entertained soldiers and civilians in the battle zones of World War II. They perform the music made popular by such greats as Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Glen Miller and Woody Herman. In addition, The Blues perform their own versions of the latest and most innovative sounds of current composers.

The 18-piece ensemble has performed in Europe, Asia, and all other continents of the world, including, of course, each state within the United States. The Army Blues regularly perform at State Department and White House events. In fact, it is reported that The Blues performed at the White House so often that they have become known as, "The President's Band".

In 1976, this world famous group, The US Army Blues, performed two concerts in Zeigler. Due to the super efforts of Zeigler native Staff Sergeant Byron Corcoran, this impossible event was scheduled to occur in Zeigler. At the appointed hour, two 18-wheelers rolled into the city park loaded with sound, lighting and stage equipment. By performance time, everyone was ready for a fantastic evening, except the weather man. Visitors came from surrounding communities, counties, and even as far away as Westchester, Illinois.

The show started as scheduled, but with each passing minute, the weather became more threatening. Soon, the audience began watching the sky, the band members watched the lightning, and the stage crew prepared for immediate retreat. The wind blew, the lightning flashed and the tornado was on its way. After some thirty minutes, the program was cancelled, everyone was invited back the next night for the second performance and they all ran for cover.

After the postponement, the army crew eventually made their way to Mitch's for fish dinners. Following the meal, an impromptu jam session occurred and a wonderful time was had by all. The next day, some of the band members hosted auditions for regional high school students that were interested in a music career, other members of the band, under the supervision of the Zeigler J C’s, went fishing at Crab Orchard Lake or golfing at the Franklin Country Club at West Frankfort, and others just chilled out in town, absorbing the love of the Zeigler citizens.

The second night performance was unbelievable, never had the audience experienced such wonderful vocal and instrumental sounds. How in the world did a small Franklin County community attracts such high powered entertainment? The credit goes to Byron Corcoran, son of Charles and Elenore Corcoran from the Ohio Street neighborhood of Zeigler. Byron graduated from Zeigler High School in 1954, and selected the University of Indiana to continue his education. He graduated from that institution in 1958, with a degree in music. Shortly after graduation he enlisted in the army and was assigned to the US Army Band as a vocalist.

The men of The Blues were so impressed with their reception in Zeigler; they pledged to come back the following year. If this occurred, it would be million to one odds, but each member was determined. The spring of 1977 arrived and the event was still on. Planning was again finalized by the J.C.’s; all that remained was for time to pass. However, just before The Blues were to leave Fort Myer, Virginia, a fellow by the name of Nixon issued new orders and The US Army Blues were diverted from Zeigler, Illinois to Europe, how disappointing. Never the less, the community of Zeigler was blessed to have had General Pershing's great jazz band in their community for two magic days.

Who knows, it may happen again! Byron Corcoran's son Master Sergeant Gregory A. Corcoran is now the Senior Producer for the U.S. Army Band, and his aunt Barbara still resides in Zeigler.

Many of the pictures on this site are located on books
and CD's located on the Zeigler's Memorabilia page

Thanks to those who have contributed pictures and memorabilia that is viewed on this site.  

Thanks to those who have contributed pictures and memorabilia that is viewed on this site.

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