In Remembrance
I'd like to begin this blog with a pause of silence in remembrance of the late David Welch.
…My life was recently touched by the amazing story of David Welch and his struggle with cancer. David's story is that of a Holy Name Cadet, he showed the strength and wisdom that drum corps holds in highest regard, and his life reflected the persistence to win that all champions possess! I read his story not many months ago and sat completely in awe of how this once Cadet had been diagnosed with brain cancer, and with a lemon-sized tumor fought to live life as if there were no tomorrow. He educated many, raised countless dollars for research and charity, and today has touched the lives of many … including myself. Today, as I sat at my computer, I wept as I read he'd finally left this earth to be with his creator.
It's amazing how I've never marched Cadets, nor do I have a close connection to them, but that morning I read David had passed I felt as if I had not only marched with, but lost my close friend. It never ceases to amaze me how close the DCI community truly is. We're all brothers and sisters of the games; we've all sweat, laughed, cried, performed like Gods, loved, and lived drum corps. From my heart to the Welch family, my greatest regrets to losing this strong soul, but with his departure I'm glad that he is finally home and at rest.
To my readers, whoever you are, I hope you'll visit David's website and read his story:
Rejoice in the life of this man and share his story with your friends and family.
Cheers,
Ty. Long


He will live on in all of the people he touched, his family, friends, people he never knew, and certainly in all Cadets, always. Just one more point
of clarification...it's Once a Cadet, Always a Cadet, never is someone a "once Cadet"...
Thanks for your thoughts on David. I am sure he is smiling down on us all, still working to help someone, somewhere...