Kyle Pritchard and Dylan Garretson are part of Ohio National Guard’s 122nd Army Band
Two Newcomerstown High School graduates Kyle Pritchard and Dylan Garretson are a part of the musical tradition of the United States military in Ohio, that has been in existence since 1944. The Ohio National Guard’s 122nd Army Band consists of members from all over Ohio and they perform statewide each year.
Kyle graduated from the University of Akron in 2023 with a degree in adolescent young adult integrated social studies. It was the cost of college that first interested him in the 122nd. “Some friends were already talking to a recruiter, and they were telling me how the Ohio Army National Guard would pay 100% of tuition costs. The recruiter sat us down and gave us the rundown of the jobs that were available," Kyle said.
"I was about to sign up to be Air Defense Artillery when he mentioned that the OhioNational Guard had a band. I informed him of my background in playing the piano and expressed my interest. He then contacted the 122nd to arrange an audition and the rest is history. I officially swore in on June 15, 2015, as a keyboard player.”
In addition, to public performances, Kyle and Dylan frequently perform at military change of command ceremonies, as well as parades with two of the largest being Red White and Boom in Columbus, and the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Cleveland. As far as practices, the two meet with others one weekend a month and two weeks in the summer, just like any other national guard unit. Because of the long gaps between formalrehearsals, the members put in much work outside of drill weekends to practice and arrange music. The drills are held at the Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base.
“I love being a part of this unit. I never expected to stay in after my first six-year contract, but I am still here after nine years. I do not plan on leaving any time soon. College would not have been possible without the Ohio National Guard’s scholarship program," Kyle said.
"In addition, I was able to use the Montgomery GI bill as well which helped me cover the costs of living during my college years. I appreciate the people in this band and the atmosphere that we have developed. We have some people that have been with the band for twenty plus years which is only because they enjoy what they are doing.”
Dylan graduated from the College of Wooster in 2024 with a degree in music education. He has been a part of the Ohio National Guard Band for five years.
“I saw them perform for the All-Ohio State Fair Band and choir, and loved their performance, and that is when I looked into being a member. I play in the concert band, drill band, one of the ceremonial bands and a small group, Dylan said. "My favorite time is our annual tour, as I love explaining and carrying on the history of the band and members who came before us. It is quite an honor to perform in ceremonies and to honor members of National Guard and Army traditions,” he added.
For more information on the band, visit their Facebook page.
This article originally appeared on The Times-Reporter: Newcomerstown High School grads are part of Ohio National Guard band
