Middle school is a naturally embarrassing time. Kids are going through puberty, deciding what they want to do with their lives, all while trying to navigate a rocky social scene.
But what could have been an incredibly humiliating experience for a young boy at Eisenhower Junior High School turned into a viral video for all the right reasons. When Andrew was asked to play the cymbals for his band’s annual Red and White Concert, he was excited about the opportunity. But midway through their performance a musical malfunction almost stole the show.
The concert started off well.
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Andrew was nailing his roll on the cymbals. When it comes to the “Star Spangled Banner,” the instrument plays a key role in our dramatic national anthem.
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But after just a few strikes of the cymbals, the handle broke off one and fell to the ground.
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Naturally, the instrument made quite a ruckus, but rather than running after it, taking even more attention away from the powerful song, Andrew did something incredible.
He put down the other cymbal…
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And stood in salute to the flag.
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When asked why he made the beautiful gesture, Andrew said that he wanted to honor all of our country’s brave servicemen and women, including his grandfather, a Korean war vet, who passed away.
Watch the touching moment and share to spread this boy’s wonderful salute.
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