202nd Army Band

The 202nd Army Band, which is stationed in Frankfort, will perform in Danville before heading off to Fort Knox. It will perform for ceremonies at Fort Knox while that band is on vacation. Normally, the National Guard band includes the Danville festival as part of its two-week tour in the summer.
The band was formed at the end of World War II in Lexington. It has seen its ranks grow from fewer than 20 musicians to an authorized strength of 41. Members include teachers from all over the state, one from North Carolina and one who plays with the Disney World band.
Over the years, the band has been stationed in a variety of places, including high school gymnasiums and aircraft hangars. Today, the 202nd uses a modern rehearsal facility in Frankfort.
After 23 years in Ashland, the 202nd shifted duty stations to Louisville in 1970. While Louisville served as headquarters for only a year, it was during this period that Chief Warrant Officer John M. Hoover assumed command. He served 25 years, making him the longest serving active 
officer in the state’s National Guard to have led the same unit. Chief Warrant Officer Greg Stepp assumed command next. He has a master’s degree in music and over 10 years of conducting experience. He is joined in leadership by 1st Sgt. David Adwell. 
In Frankfort, the band drills at Boone National Guard Center. It serves as a public relations tool for Kentucky’s National Guard.
Over the years, the band has accompanied nationally renowned singers such as Danny Thomas and performed at Jackson Square in New Orleans. The band has seen service in Mississippi, Virginia, Georgia and Michigan.