Fort Riley March

Fort Riley March was inspired by multiple trips across the State of Kansas along I-70. The platoon of army helicopters was an amazing sight, stimulating thoughts of men and women choosing to defend our country in the U.S. Army. Fort Riley has been in existence since 1853, built along the Santa Fe Trail at the junction of the Republican and Smoky Hill Rivers, to protect settlers traveling westward. The namesake of the fort is attributed to Major General Bennett C. Riley, who commandeered the first military escort along the trail in 1829. The fort has continuously operated, also serving as a training facility for the cavalry, the infantry, and the National Guard. It is commonly referred to as Home of The Big Red One, First Infantry Division Post. The work begins with percussion leading to a soldier march in the low winds. The trumpets state reveille in a minor key, a theme which occurs throughout. A dotted eighth, quarter note theme represents the cavalry on horseback. Ascending melodies represent the helicopters of present day in take-off. The woodwinds accelerate the ascending themes with sixteenth note patterns and trills. The final chorale represents the strength and longevity of Fort Riley, Kansas.