History of the First State Force Band

History of the First State Force Band

In 1988 a band was organized. The concept of this band was new. This anti-drug educational endeavor that would have a profound and long-lasting impact on the "War On Drugs" in the State of Delaware. In an effort to communicate this message to reach our young people, the First State Force Band was created.
This innovative band was comprised of law enforcement members from different departments throughout the State of Delaware. These law enforcement members through their dedication, performed concerts several times a month to the children of Delaware using music to stress the importance of staying drug free and to stay away from violence. The band was on a serious mission. The first three years the band had performed for every school district in Delaware. The reception of the First State Force Band from the education, business and political community has been outstanding. This program now recognized as one of the most innovative and effective programs to come along in many years. The efforts of the band, has gained national attention and in 1990, the band performed in front of the White House for the National Federation of Parents for Drug Free Youth Red Ribbon Campaign. In September 1991, the band was invited to Montreal, Canada and was presented with a very special commendation award by the International Narcotics Enforcement Officers Association. The band is invited each year to play in Washington DC at the Policeman's Memorial, Special Olympics Torch Run held in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware along with many other special events. The main purpose of the band is to perform each month at a different school to spread our anti-drug and stop the violence message. Since 1989 to this present date the band has continued to deliver this very important message to the young people of Delaware. The success or failure of this Nation's "War On Drugs" lies with young children and our ability to influence their decisions to stay away from drugs. As a result, the First State Force Band was established to allow the children to interact with law enforcement members in a very positive manner. This allows the law enforcement members to influence and communicate our anti-drug, stay away from violence and stay in school message through our music. The success of this project, and the positive reaction by the students throughout the State of Delaware, has exceeded all of our expectations. As with any project of this magnitude, the band is unable to function without significant financial support. Corporate sponsors have supported the First State Force Band to ensure that our message continues to reach the young children, "SAY NO TO DRUGS", "STAY AWAY FROM VIOLENCE" AND "STAY IN SCHOOL"