They stand on the football field as they did five or even 10 years ago. They stand with their trumpets in hand, nervously replaying the anthem in their heads while eyeing the crowd, remembering the time when a different man, Frank Reed, conducted them. Now, they stand once again, honoring him and his legacy.

Frank Reed, an assistant band director who specialized in brass passed away on October 7. Shortly after his passing, band directors Todd Payne and Todd Toney came up with an idea to bring the alumni together and honor Reed by playing the national anthem for Reed’s mother.

“He was awesome,” 2001 graduate Andrew Howe said. “He taught me how to play better, he taught me how to be a better student, and he taught me how to be a better person.”

Passing on the traditions, Howe also has a son who plays the trumpet at Jackson Middle School. Howe has also been playing along with him.

“When [Reed] found out he wanted [Howe’s son] to come take lessons with him,” Howe said. “And when I learned he was doing lessons at Jackson, I was the first one in line to get a spot.”

Class of 2005 graduate Scott Kickham described Reed as a big influence on his life. He says Reed saw him through some of the worst and best times during high school.

“He definitely deserves this kind of tribute,” Kickham said. “I actually found out about this the same night I found out that he had passed. It was tough losing someone like Frank. He was definitely one of the best things in my life.”

 Mindy Jones, 2003 graduate, took private lessons from Reed. She said that performing the national anthem again brings back a lot of memories.

“I was always kind of goofing off in band and didn’t take it really seriously, and he kind of made me realize that music is a special thing,” Jones said. “ He really changed my life.”