Happy Birthday Mr. Sousa

Mom came into town this weekend to visit the 4Vs and to celebrate John Philip Sousa's birthday. Mr. Sousa is buried at the Congressional Cemetery in Southeast DC. Each year on his birthday, November 6th, the Marine Corps Band comes to the cemetery to play his marches and celebrate his birth. Sousa grew up in the Marine Corps Band and was the leader of the band for 15 years. During this time, he wrote the great marches that we all know and love.

Much to our surprise, when we got to the cemetery, Mr. Sousa himself was there to talk about his life. (This guy must always be Sousa for Halloween!) He was well spoken and charming. We enjoyed his personal stories from Sousa's life.

While Mike and Mom and I were charmed by the Sousa impersonator, Brock and Grace were charmed by Sousa's birthday cake!

It was a little chilly, so we had to break out the winter gear for all. We enjoyed Mr. Sousa, listened to the band and toured the great old cemetery. What a fun and funky DC history day!

Love,

4Vs