From their initial performance at Bayside in 1936 through 2008, the Clear Lake Drum and Bugle Corps played “Ode to Joy” or “The Corn Song” for countless audiences. John Kopecky was the founder and first director of the American Legion Drum and Bugle Corps.
In 1942, the Corps joined forces with the Boy Scouts to encourage Clear Lake citizens to collect rubber. They marched while playing “You’re in the Army Now”. Clear Lakers eventually brought in over 18 tons of recyclable rubber.
Under director Lud Wangberg the Corps became Lincoln Drum and Bugle Corps. Lincoln school principal Grace Anderson lent her talents and energies to the group for many years.
When they moved to another school, Jim Reynolds directed the Central Drum and Bugle Corps. The later Clear Creek Drum and Bugle Corps went on with a few interruptions because qualified directors were difficult to find. Kate Williams, Luke Snyder and Sue Young taught the Corps for the final years of their existence.
They were widely said to be the longest running Drum and Bugle Corps of elementary performers. Were you a small marcher? Does “ Semper Fidelis” still ring in your ears?
