CASPER, WYOMING — July 7, 2026 — The sound of bagpipes echoed through downtown Casper as pipers with Wyoming for Heroes participated in Casper’s Annual Parade Day. The performance helped raise awareness for the nonprofit organization, which provides support to veterans and first responders throughout Wyoming.
Leading the performance were bagpipers Matt Mitchell, Audrey Mitchell, Collin Jensen, Eric Willcox, Val Reed, and Kayleigh Jensen. The group brought together musicians with years of pipe band and parade experience alongside some members making their Parade Day debut, highlighting the growth of Casper’s pipe band community. Joining them for the first time was bass drummer Fred Rawling. Although an experienced pipe band drummer, this year’s Parade Day marked his first performance with the Casper band.
The bagpipe has long been associated with military tradition, particularly through the Scottish Highlands. Pipers historically accompanied soldiers into battle, on marches, and during ceremonial occasions. Today, that legacy continues as pipe bands around the world perform at memorials, parades, and events honoring veterans and first responders. For organizations like Wyoming for Heroes, the distinctive sound of the Great Highland bagpipe serves as a powerful symbol of remembrance, service, and community.
“Parade Day is one of Casper’s favorite traditions, and we’re grateful to be part of it,” said Audrey Mitchell, piper with the Casper Pipe Band. “It’s an honor to share the music of bagpipes with our community while also helping raise awareness for Wyoming for Heroes. Celebrating America’s 250th anniversary made this year’s parade even more special.”
Wyoming for Heroes provides financial assistance to Wyoming veterans and first responders facing medical or personal crises. Individuals who may benefit from the organization’s support, or those wishing to refer someone in need, are encouraged to complete an application at WyomingForHeroes.com. Community members can also learn more about the organization’s mission and upcoming events by following Wyoming For Heroes on Facebook or visiting their website at WyomingForHeroes.com. Those interested in supporting Wyoming for Heroes or joining the Casper Pipe Band are encouraged to contact Matt Mitchell at info@wyomingforheroes.com or (307) 301-8066.
As Wyoming and communities across the nation commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, traditions like Parade Day continue to celebrate the values of service and community. For the Casper Pipe Band and Wyoming for Heroes, the opportunity to share that tradition through music remains both an honor and a privilege.
| PAID FOR BY WYOMING FOR HEROES This article is a promoted post. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the text belong solely to the organization that paid for the article, and do not necessarily reflect the views, thoughts or opinions of Oil City News, its employees or its publisher. Please fill out this form if you would like to speak to our sales department about advertising opportunities on Oil City News. |
