8 Dec 2008

Obama's Hawaii High School to feature in inauguration

4:11 pm on 8 December 2008

US President elect Barack Obama has invited the marching band and the military training unit from his alma mater, Punahou High School in Honolulu to take part in the presidential inaugural parade next month.

The Honolulu Advertiser reports that the Punahou School band and unit were chosen from among nearly 1,400 applicants to participate in the Washington, D.C., parade on Jan. 20 after Mr Obama takes the oath of office.

President-Elect Obama, who graduated from Punahou in 1979 said in a press release, that he was honored to invite these talented groups and individuals to participate in the Inaugural Parade.

He said these organizations embody the best of our nation's history, diversity and commitment to service.

The parade down Pennsylvania Avenue will follow Obama's swearing-in ceremony on the steps of the Capitol.

Punahou was among a record 1,382 organizations that submitted applications to participate in the parade.