The Hammonton High School Blue Devils marching band reached new heights this year. The 40-member ensemble finished second in the Group I Open class at the Northeastern Band Championship in Allentown Pa. That performance earned the group its first-ever berth in the United States Scholastic Band Association National Championship.

The Blue Devils rose to the occasion and took fourth place in their class at the competition, held Friday at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis, Md. For that -- and for the band's success all year -- we offer a resounding Bravo!

Marching bands don't often get the recognition they deserve, both in school and in the community. Their prime season overlaps with that of high school football and other fall sports, which often enjoy most of the glory. But band members work incredibly hard, starting with mid-summer practices that are essential to help the group perfect its field show. The rehearsals intensify during the school year, and weekend schedules rapidly fill up with tournaments, halftime performances and parades.

First-year band director Kevin Arena -- a Hammonton High School graduate -- should be commended for his ability to teach, motivate and inspire the group.

Band members should be applauded for their dedication, commitment and desire -- all of which allowed the Blue Devils to improve their scores each week and make history for Hammonton's music program.

They've represented their school, and their town, very well.

If you didn't see the band on the field this year, you may get one more chance. Members hope to perform before the Hammonton-St. Joseph football game on Nov. 28.

They'll also participate in the fire department's annual Christmas parade on Dec. 13.

So go hear some great music, cheer them on and congratulate them on a job well done.