Honor Flight Syracuse wants to offer a heartfelt thanks to Maria DeSantis and the DeSantis Orchestra for a stirring and emotional Veterans Day concert of patriotic and big band-era songs on Saturday, November 11, at St. Charles Church on Orchard Road. Upwards of 150 people filled the pews for the inspirational musical salute to our veterans.  Not only were veterans in the audience, but several of the musicians and vocalists also served our country in uniform!

On hand to thank Maria personally were Honor Flight’s Patti Callahan and Jeff Bastable.  Volunteers Patty Smarzo and Judy Tarrants greeted each person in attendance with information about Honor Flight Syracuse.

The magnificent performance was free, thanks to the sponsorship of Empower Federal Credit Union and the Cummings Family Foundation.  Donations were accepted at the door and every dollar raised will benefit Honor Flight Syracuse!  Thank you, Maria, for continuing the proud legacy of the DeSantis Orchestra, which dates back 75 years beginning with her beloved father Mario.  ❤️