After 112 years, the 77th Army Band is “marching on”

The 77th Army Band is “marching on” to other things.

Fort Sill Public Affairs Officer Keith Pannell confirmed Wednesday that the band, which has been at Fort Sill since 1955, is one of three that will be deactivated starting in October with the start of the new fiscal year.

The decision was made by senior leaders at the Pentagon based on Army needs, according to Pannell.

The issue has come up before and Lawton city officials have stopped it by reaching out to the congressional delegation in Washington, D.C., according to Mayor Stan Booker.

When that time comes, the community will call and try to prevent the disbandment, Booker said.

Booker said the band is an important entity in the community, bringing Lawton and Fort Sill together as one with their influence. The band plays a key role in bringing in “a lot of culture, moral, pride and feel good” to the community.

Jason Poudrier, Arts and Humanities Administrator for the City of Lawton, said the disbandment would be a huge loss.

“The 77th Army Band is a historical and integral part of the community,” Poudrier said. 

Poudrier said the band plays a large role in many city events and its departure will create a huge void. 

Pannell said the band will continue to do its mission until October.