My father was seated with the World War II veterans at the world premiere of The League of Grateful Sons this last Friday. He related to me a precious story about an 84-year-old man sitting next to him. Unable to move much or to clap his hands, tears ran down the cheeks of the aged veteran when the Sentimental Journey Orchestra opened the evening with the beautiful tune, “Moonlight Serenade.” Though he could not clap, he would bang his hand on the seat to express his gratitude for once again hearing the soundtrack of his youth.
The Memphis Belles performed their rendition of “Apple Blossom Time.”
We invited this vintage World War II orchestra to play. Our mission was to bless and honor the veterans and give the children of this present generation some insight into the music which unified the nation during the war years. The Sentimental Journey Orchestra played “Chattanooga Choo Choo,” “The Lord’s Prayer,” a melody of tunes from the armed services, “I’ll Be Seeing You,” “Sentimental Journey,” and many others.