About this Unit
The 264th Army Band was activated in 1943 at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, originally serving as a musical unit to boost troop morale during World War II. Over the decades, the band supported numerous military ceremonies, community events, and official functions across multiple postings, including Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Renowned for its musical excellence, the 264th Army Band played a vital role in fostering esprit de corps and strengthening relationships between the Army and the public. The unit was inactivated in 2016 as part of Army restructuring, concluding over 70 years of distinguished service.
Historical Facts
• Origins: The 264th Army Band was originally constituted during World War II, tracing its lineage back to 1944 as part of the Army Service Forces Band in Europe.
• Activation in Hawaii: The unit has been primarily based at Fort Shafter, Hawaii, serving as the premier musical organization for U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii.
• Pacific Theater Role: Throughout its history, the band has supported U.S. Army operations and troop morale across the Pacific, including Japan, Korea, and the broader Asia-Pacific region.
• Change of Designations: The band has undergone several name changes and re-designations, reflecting the evolving structure of the Army and its missions in the Pacific.
• Joint Service Performances: The 264th Army Band frequently collaborates with other service bands, performing in joint military ceremonies and multinational events in Hawaii.
• Community Outreach: Known for its community engagement, the band regularly performs in local parades, schools, and public concerts, strengthening ties between the military and Hawaiian communities.
• Diverse Ensembles: The band is made up of multiple ensembles, including marching, concert, jazz, and ceremonial groups, showcasing a wide range of musical styles.
• Presidential Support: The 264th Army Band has provided musical honors for visiting U.S. Presidents and foreign dignitaries in Hawaii, highlighting its ceremonial importance.
• Disaster Relief Support: Band members have assisted in disaster relief efforts in Hawaii, providing not only music but also manpower during emergency responses.
• Deactivation and Legacy: The band was deactivated in 2018 as part of Army-wide restructuring, but its legacy continues through alumni and the ongoing musical traditions of Army Bands in the Pacific.
